austin tx bat tours

• Austin Bat Tours
• Austin’s Best Sightseeing Tours
• Austin Kayak and Stand Up Paddle Board Tours
• Austin E-Bike and City Walking Sightseeing Tours
• Austin Bar Hop, Texas Hill Country Wineries, Breweries, and Distillery Tours
• Bat Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• Attractions

Everything you need to know about Austin’s Congress Bridge Bats

What happens to austin’s 1.5 million bats during freezing winter storms.

You may be asking yourself if the Austin area bats are okay during freezing temperatures.

When cold weather hits in late October to mid-November, the Mexican free-tailed bats migrate to Mexico, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife .

There are more than 1,400 species of bats, according to data from the U.S. Department of the Interior. Texas is home to 31 species of bats, two of which are endangered, according to Pest Gnome. In October 2023, the Lone Star State was named the best state in the U.S. for bat lovers .

How did the bats fair during the 2021 freeze?

Lee Mackenzie and Dianne Odegard, a married couple who run Austin Bat Refuge, picked up as many as about 600 bats, dead and alive, during the 2021 freeze from multiple Central Texas bridges .

The pair said they have never dealt with anything like this.

It’s impossible to tell how many bats across the state have died because of the 2021 freeze, Mackenzie said, but the number is significant and could affect bat populations in Texas.

Do bats migrate or hibernate in the winter?

Not all bats hibernate. Some bats migrate during colder months to warmer areas in search of food.

Although many bats in Texas migrate south to Mexico and Central America during the winter months,  as many as 100,000 bats  can linger year-round in the Austin area.

Roosts under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge have helped keep bats warm when temperatures start to drop. The spaces are 16 inches deep and 1 inch wide and can retain heat for the bats. The bridge hosts the largest urban bat colony in the world , with an estimated 1.5 million bats, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Where can you view bats in Texas?

The state features nine bat-viewing sites and 18 bat rescuers. Bat-watching starts in late March through early fall.

Here are some locations in Austin:

• Congress Avenue Bridge (adjacent to the Statesman Bat Observation Center)
• Butler Hike & Bike Trail  at Lady Bird Lake

Bats are the only flying mammals and are really fast

A bat’s wing resembles a modified human hand, according to the U.S. Department of the Interior . The flexible webbing that extends between each long finger bone and many movable joints make bats agile fliers.

Depending on the species, some bats can fly up to 100 mph .

Bats have a long lifespan

Although most bats live less than 20 years, six species were documented to live past 30. The oldest bat was discovered in Siberia at 41 years old.

How do bats help the community?

More than 300 species of fruits, such as bananas, mangos, and avocados, depend on bats for pollination.

They also spread the seeds of nuts, figs and cacao – the main ingredient in chocolate. The agave and saguaro cactus also depend on bats for their health.

What can you do to protect bats?

Bats have few natural predators but are mostly threatened by diseases such as white-nose syndrome. The disease causes a white fungus to grow on a bat’s face, forcing it awake during hibernation and leading to starvation.

People can help slow the spread of white-nose syndrome by avoiding areas where bats are hibernating. You can also help by decontaminating footwear, clothes and other gear before entering caves, as spores of the fungus are easily spread by people.

Livestream: Watch bats from Bracken Cave in San Antonio

Adrian Hedden , a Carlsbad Current-Argus reporter and Pat Rice , a Daytona Beach News-Journal editor, contributed to this report.

Don’t Miss the Annual 2024 Bat Fest

Live music, food & drinks, tons of vendors, and 1.5 million bats? You don’t want to miss out on this yearly event in ATX. Visit www.batfest.com  for complete details and music lineup! 2 million Mexican Free Tail Bats, 2 stages of music, arts and crafts, food, kids activities. Get your tickets here!

Guide to the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats

Hello and welcome to Austin Bat Tours, where we have all the top tips on where the fabled Mexican (or Brazilian) Free-Tailed Bat likes to hang out! These interesting and fastidious little bug eaters are actually pretty common in terms of animal population, but in recent years destruction of their nesting sites has earned them a place on the protected species list in some States – making the best place to see them on an Austin Bat tour all of your very own!

Why We Are Bat Crazy

Here at Austin Bat Tours we believe Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge bats are for everyone. We want to share that love with other enthusiasts by providing a safe and welcoming environment in which you can enjoy this spectacular sightseeing opportunity for the unforgettable experience that it is. We take pride in providing only the very finest quality in informative and engaging tours run by our highly trained and fully professional guides – who love bats as much as we do and who are always happy to help!

If you find these furry little creatures fascinating, then you will be happy to know that we operate tours in and around the city that are specifically devised to let you see as many bats as possible. We know all the little nooks and crannies that they like to hide in at the Congress Avenue Bridge. We operate evening tours (since evening is the best time to see them) that will show you our beautiful city as well as our beautiful furry friends. When you book with Austin Bat Tours you book with the best!

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

Bat Flight Time: About 45K bats under the bridge; taking flight before or during sunset from 7:45 - 8:18 p.m.

Admission: Free

Parking: Combined Meter/Free Parking Lots Interspersed Throughout the City

What to Wear: Dress Warmly for this Post-Sunset Spectacle. Besides that Anything Goes. It is not unusual for “Batman” to show up several times a week.

You Will Need: Your Camera, a Picnic Blanket and your Sense of Adventure! Snacks are Sensible Too.

Your Safety Matters to Us

We care for your comfort and safety when you come on a tour with us, so please make sure to dress in your summer clothes as Bats favorite the warm weather and are mostly visible from October to March when it can get to 90 to 100 degrees. If you fancy something entirely different we even operate kayak tours that give you the chance to spy these magnificent creatures from the water. Not only is this an unforgettable excursion it also lets you see our splendid city in the most spectacular way!

See Many Bats

The Mexican Free-Tailed bats love to nest in our awesome city. Known as the fastest horizontal flyer on the planet and able to reach recorded speeds of 160 km/h; their departure every sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge is world renowned – and so it should be, with its unimaginable colony of 1.5 million of them!

So, to book your bat-based extravaganza either by sea or by land contact us today . We love to hear from other bat lovers and no question is too big or too small. You can also visit our shop to browse all the best in bat goodies. If you want to stay ahead of the curve in all things Mexican Free-Tailed Bats then please do sign up for our mailing list , where you can get access to special bat new and discounts that’s enough to make any fellow bat fan smile!

Please enjoy your visit with Austin Bat Tours and if there is anything else we can do for you just let us know!

Featured Congress Bridge Bat Video!

Congress bridge bats in austin, texas.

Most of the visitors that venture into Austin, Texas have heard of the city’s reputation for being home to a colony of Mexican Free-Tailed Bats.  Often overlooked, however, is the fact that Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge over Lady Bird Lake is one of the few locals that bats truly inhabit, and it is one of the biggest colonies of urban bats on the entire planet.  Many bat watchers from around the globe visit the Congress Bridge between Spring and Fall, to witness these majestic-winged creatures in flight.

If you are familiar at all with bats, you know that they are nocturnal creatures by nature, and as the sun sets, they take flight, looking to consume any and all unsuspecting insects that happen to be airborne.  With a flight speed of 60 miles per hour, insects do not stand a chance, leaving  spectators awestruck by the bats amazing and erratic flight patterns.  Each evening, the flight path of the bats is unique and different from the previous, creating anticipation as bat enthusiasts await the cacophony of nocturnal, leathery wings.

Generally, the bats known simply as “scouts” will break the cavern enclosure initially, ensuring that no predators are waiting nearby.  The scouts will then signal the remaining bats that all is clear causing up to three massive streams of bats to rocket out of the cave and take to the skies!

Austin Bat Fest

Once a year, Austin, also known as “Bat City”, hosts an extravagant celebration in honor of the Mexican Free-Tails.  People from all around gather together to celebrate these mammals with food, professional vendors, and music.  Tourists, bat aficionados, and locals alike, all take pride in and cherish this annual event.

Where Did They Come From?

If legend can be trusted, the Mexican Free-Tail bats started to frequent Austin, Texas, from spring to fall, at the same time the Congress Avenue Bridge was renovated, which attracted the bats already living in the drains located in the underbelly of the northern part of the bridge, seemingly by accident, and caused other bats of the same species to migrate from Mexico with the local bats making the same migration.  The bats were happy to find that the miniscule crevices under the bridge were ideal for building a colony and housing many, many bats.  With the assistance of time, purportedly, the colony eventually grew to be about one and half million strong, which is impressive, to say the least.

The bats population reached maximum capacity in approximately three years, stacking on top of one another in the aforementioned crevices.  This brought about the locals dubbing the northern portion of the bridge the “nursery”, which is where the mama bats leave their offspring as they go about their night-time insect hunting.  They then return to the nursery and use scent and echo location to find their bundles of nocturnal mammalian joy, which they then nurse before resting.

Having discovered Congress Bridge, the bats now make an annual migration from Mexico to Austin , Texas from the spring time to the fall, which would be the perfect time for any bat watchers or curious tourists to come visit the city and observe these marvelous mammals!

The Austin locals are also happy with the environmentally conscious bats whom eat an estimated thirty thousand pounds of insects every single night, reducing the need for any pesticide usage.  Not to mention that those pesky mosquitoes virtually do not exist due to the hungry creatures eating them every night.

About the Bats

When the bats initially migrate back to Austin, Texas, there will approximately be about 750,000 bats, which are, in their entirety, made up of pregnant females.  The colony, at this point is a “maternity colony”.  During their time as a maternity colony they will each birth one pup, generally creating an equal gender ratio within the colony, effectively doubling the colonies size to one and a half million!  That is a whole lot of bats!

The newborn pups will generally stay at the colony for the first season, or so, of their lives, but the mothers that birthed them can always be expected to return to where they birthed their offspring the year prior.  With all of the female bats in Austin, let us not forget about the bountiful male population, as well.  The male bats will generally cluster in small groups ranging from twenty to one hundred, often times being found roosting on building alcoves, and the like.

These aforementioned Mexican Free-Tailed bats can live almost a decade and can weigh approximately twelve grams with a wingspan of eleven, or so, inches.  If they do not spread their wings, however, they are the size of an average adult’s palm.

Mexican free-tailed bats live for 8-9 years and only grow to weigh roughly 12 grams. Their wingspan is about 11”, but with their wings retracted, they can fit in the palm of a hand.

Another interesting fact about Austin’s bats are that in the early years of the 1980s, Austin locals worried about rabies infection and the implications therein of the bat populace outnumbering that of the local humans.  Purportedly, the locals petitioned for the extermination of the bats and the dismemberment of the colony.  If it were not for the Bat Conservation International organization, the bats may not have been around for the enjoyment of the individuals now.

If a bat ever contracts rabies, typically they have approximately seventy-two hours until they die, and are often experiencing the initial symptom of paralysis.  With that being said, if you see a grounded bat, do not touch it, as it may, in fact, have rabies.  If you happen to touch, or be bitten, by a downed bat, be sure to capture it and have it tested for rabies to ensure that you have not unknowingly contracted the disease.

Another bit of information that should be known is that, although the Mexican Free-Tail bat is a powerful and agile flyer, the young bats tend to fly at a lower altitude and can have trouble with lifting off, causing them to fall into the water.  If a young bat is spotted in the water, simply leave it be, as it will attempt to “backstroke” to one of the bridge pylons and clamber to safety.

Where Can Someone See the Bats?

The Mexican Free-Tail bats can be found in quite a few places around Austin.  Not only are they seen in most of the caverns and caves dotting the countryside, but they can be seen just south of Austin, at Bracken Cave, at the Hancock Center, at McNeil Overpass and the I-35 bridge, and dotting the alcoves and sides of various buildings around the city.

The Statesmen Bat Observation Center, just southeast of Congress Bridge, does not cost much, and is available for public use.  With standing room along the top portion of the bridge and the closest parking to Congress Bridge, the Observation Center is definitely worth looking into if you want to see the bats.

If looking for bats by yourself does not seem too appealing, then you could always jump on one of the Austin Bat Tours, such as the Walking Tour, the Kayak Bat Sunset Tour on Lady Bird Lake, or the Bat Photo Tour.

Guide to Watching the Bats and Austin Bat Tours

With three different ways to experience the “Bats of Austin”, the bat tours will make for a memorable experience that will last a lifetime.

The Bat Walking Tour is approximately a ninety-minute tour guided by one of Austin’s leading bat experts.  Initially, the meeting point before the start of the tour is the Hyatt Hotel.  From there, the walk begins towards the Congress Bridge and stops at the Statesmen Observation Center where the bat experts then explain, in a thorough and vividly detailed manner, the history and backstory of Austin’s bats and how it all came about.

The Kayak Bat Watching Sunset Tour typically consists of a one hundred and twenty to one-hundred-and-fifty-minute endeavor that embarks from the Kayak Tour Offices on Riverside Drive and is an amazing way to view Austin up close and personal.  This tour encompasses some of Austin’s more historical and awe-inspiring sights, along with viewing the bats gobbling down bugs.

The Photo Tour is approximately a one-hundred-and-twenty-minute guided tour that begins at Congress Avenue Kayaks.  This tour is guided by a professional photographer who explains how to take amazing photographs of these majestic mammals.

One of the tips given on the Photo Tour is to shoot video instead of taking photos, as cellular devices typically do not have a fast-enough shutter speed to capture these agile animals in flight.

The various bat tours begin in the evening, and start in early March, proceeding until November.  Worst case scenario is that the bats do not take flight due to inclement weather, but the tours still afford many amazing photo opportunities.

Austin Bat Tours is a proud sponsor of Batcon and the Austin Bat Refuge. We make an annual sales donation to support these fine organizations:

Bat Conservation International http://www.batcon.org/

Austin Bat Refuge https://austinbatrefuge.org/

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

• Austin Tours
• Bat Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• Bat Viewing Guide
• Things to Do
• Shopping Adventures on South Congress Avenue, Austin
• Restaurant Guide

The Marvel of Nature: Congress Avenue Bridge – Home to Austin’s Largest Urban Bat Colony

In the heart of Austin, Texas, a unique and extraordinary natural spectacle takes place each evening from spring through autumn. The Congress Avenue Bridge, an iconic symbol of the city, becomes the stage for the largest urban bat colony in North America. Hundreds of thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from their daytime roosts beneath the bridge, creating a breathtaking display that captivates locals and visitors alike. This remarkable phenomenon is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and urban life in Austin.

The Bats of Congress Avenue Bridge

The Mexican free-tailed bats, scientifically known as Tadarida brasiliensis, are the stars of the show. These flying mammals are aptly named for their tails, which extend past their tail membranes, giving them a unique appearance. Congress Avenue Bridge, which spans the Colorado River in downtown Austin, has become the favored maternity roosting site for these bats. Every year, around March or April, the colony returns to give birth to their pups, and by late summer, the population of bats swells to an astonishing one and a half million individuals.

The Bat Emergence

Each evening, just before sunset, a curious hush falls over the spectators gathered along the bridge, awaiting the mesmerizing spectacle. As the sun dips below the horizon, the bats stir and begin their exodus. Wave after wave of bats soar into the darkening sky, forming undulating ribbons of black against the backdrop of the Texas twilight. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that leaves onlookers in utter amazement.

The Timing and Migration

The timing of the bat emergence varies with the sunset, but it usually takes place around dusk. As autumn approaches, the bats begin their migration back to Mexico, marking the end of their stay in Austin. This seasonal event has become a symbol of the changing of the seasons in the city and is celebrated by the locals as a unique and unmissable experience.

Planning your next trip? Search on KAYAK

The Environmental Impact

While the bat emergence is a remarkable natural spectacle, it also serves a crucial ecological purpose. The bats are voracious insect eaters, and each night, they consume thousands of pounds of insects, including agricultural pests like moths and mosquitoes. This natural pest control service provided by the bats is an invaluable asset to the local ecosystem and farming community.

Preservation and Conservation Efforts

The presence of the bat colony has led to increased awareness of the importance of preserving and protecting this unique natural phenomenon. The city of Austin, along with various conservation organizations, has implemented measures to ensure the bats’ well-being and habitat. These initiatives include the installation of educational signs, maintaining a respectful distance from the bats, and raising awareness about the ecological significance of the colony.

The Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, Texas, is more than just a transportation landmark; it is the stage for a natural wonder that continues to captivate the hearts and minds of locals and visitors alike. The largest urban bat colony in North America is a testament to the remarkable balance between urban development and nature’s wonders. Witnessing the emergence of hundreds of thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats is an experience that leaves a lasting impression and showcases the beauty of coexistence between city life and the natural world. It is a living reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary moments in nature can be found in the most unexpected places.

[instagram-feed feed=1]

Congress Bridge Bats is a proud sponsor of Batcon and the Austin Bat Refuge. We make an annual sales donation to support these fine organizations:

Bat Conservation International http://www.batcon.org/

Austin Bat Refuge https://austinbatrefuge.org/

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling the great state of Texas

VERY TRULY TEXAS

Best Austin Bat Tour in 2023

Welcome to Austin, Texas – the home of the world’s largest urban bat colony! There are many options for an Austin bat tour that offers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to see this amazing nature experience each evening.

With up to 2 million bats during the peak of the season, this natural phenomenon is truly a sight to behold. As the sun begins to set, a flurry of activity begins under the Congress Avenue Bridge as the colony of Mexican free-tailed bats wake up for feeding. And as the darkness sets in, the bats take to the sky, creating an unforgettable spectacle as they head toward the eastern part of downtown.

So grab a spot along the bridge or join in on of the guided bat tours is Austin, TX and prepare to be amazed as you witness this natural wonder firsthand. It is one of our favorite Austin activities to share with visitors.

If you’re looking to witness the incredible sight of Austin bat watching flying out from the Congress Avenue Bridge, we strongly encourage you to take a bat tour in Austin. These tours are a popular way for locals and tourists alike to experience the world’s largest urban bat colony and for experienced guides to take their group to just the right spot to observe them. A bat tour is one of the best things to do in Austin !

Some of the links below are affiliate links which means that we earn a small commission if you choose to purchase – at no additional cost to you. See our full Privacy Policy here.

ARE YOU BOOKING YOUR TOUR LAST MINUTE?

Our #1 top pick.

This Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour is our top pick for viewing the bats from waters of Lady Bird Lake at sunset!

With over a hundred great reviews, this tour is one of the most popular!

There are many tour operators in Austin that offer a variety of options for viewing the bats. One of the most popular ways to see the bats is from a bat boat tour in Austin on Lady Bird Lake, which gives you a unique perspective from the water. Other options include standing on the bridge itself or watching from the riverbanks.

Some tours also include a knowledgeable guide who will provide you with interesting facts and information about the bats and their behavior.

It’s important to note that while the bats are a unique attraction, they are still wild animals and should be respected as such. Tour operators generally prioritize the safety and well-being of the bats, and may limit the number of boats or people allowed in certain areas to minimize disturbance to the colony.

There are several options for taking a bat cruise in Austin, but to save you time, our top three picks are below. This article breaks down the best options for a bat tour in Austin so that you can check them out in detail if you’d like!

All bat watching tours listed below have practically all 5 star reviews with many happy guests. Choose the Austin bat tour that fits your group best!

NO TIME TO READ THE DETAILS?

Our top 3 picks:.

• TOP #1 PICK: Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour (most popular)
• #2 PICK: Congress Avenue Bats Bike Tour (5 star reviews and a mini city tour by bike)
• #3 PICK: Austin Famous Ghost and Bat Segway Tour (most reviews + spooky thrill)

Bat Boat Tour in Austin:

1. congress avenue bat bridge kayak tour in austin – top #1 pick.

• 4.5/5 stars
• 110+ Reviews
• 2 hour tour

Looking for a more immersive way to experience the world’s largest urban bat colony in Austin? Consider taking this Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour . This is my favorite bat tour – a two-hour guided sunset bat cruise in Austin that allows you to observe the bats from the comfort of your own kayak.

Not only does this tour provide an unforgettable experience, but it also eliminates the stress of finding a prime parking spot or a crowded spot along the river to sit. You’ll be able to paddle your kayak to the perfect viewing spot while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Lady Bird Lake.

Don’t worry if you’ve never kayaked before, no experience is needed. The professional guide will provide a paddle lesson and safety instructions to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident on the water. You’ll also be provided with a life jacket for added safety on this kayak bat tour in Austin.

As the sun begins to set, the bats start to stir under the Congress Avenue Bridge. You’ll witness the breathtaking sight of more than a million bats taking flight as they head out to hunt for insects. The professional guide will provide you with interesting facts and information about the bats, including their behavior and the important role they play in the ecosystem.

This bat boat tour in Austin is an excellent way to witness this natural wonder while enjoying a peaceful and scenic paddle on Lady Bird Lake. It’s truly an Austin bucket list activity!

Highlights:

• Experience the bat phenomenon from the water
• Easy parking
• Professional Guide
• Get to Kayak on Lady Bird Lake at sunset

Bat Tour Austin + Rides:

2. congress avenue bats bike tour.

• 2.5 hour tour

For an active way to experience Austin’s famous bat colony, consider taking the Congress Avenue Bats Bike Tour . This 2.5 hour tour takes you on a 10-mile ride, allowing you to learn about the city’s history and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lady Bird Lake before arriving at the Congress Avenue Bridge just in time to witness the more than 1.5 million bats as they take flight for their evening feeding.

A professional guide and all bike equipment are included, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear. The tour begins with a ride along the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, one of Austin’s most scenic routes. Along the way, you’ll see Zilker Park and Barton Springs, two of the city’s most iconic attractions.

The Congress Avenue Bats Bike Tour is an excellent way to see a different side of Austin’s legendary nightlife while also getting some exercise and enjoying the city’s beautiful scenery.

• Professional guide + gear included
• Fun way to get exercise!
• Perfect bat view at sunset
• Mini-tour of the city’s landmarks

3. Austin Famous Ghost and Bat Segway Tour

• 115+ Reviews

If you’re looking for a thrilling and unique way to explore Austin’s famous landmarks, consider taking the Austin Famous Ghost and Bat Segway Tour . This 2.5-hour tour offers a spooky twist on the typical sightseeing experience, featuring both the city’s famous bat colony and its haunted history.

Offered from spring through fall, this Segway tour takes you downtown to explore the city’s historic buildings, including haunted hotels and landmarks. You’ll hear ghostly tales behind Austin’s iconic buildings and learn about the city’s spooky past.

The tour then takes you to witness the world’s largest urban bat colony emerge from the Congress Bridge at sunset. You’ll watch in awe as more than 1.5 million South Congress bats take flight, heading out to hunt for insects in the night sky.

In addition to the bats, you’ll also see other famous landmarks like the Texas State Capitol Building, Moonlight Towers, Lady Bird Lake, and the 6th Street Entertainment district. And don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a Segway before – you’ll receive instruction and learn how to ride before the tour begins.

• Most reviewed tour
• Historic, haunted story-telling
• Easy to learn Segway for transportatin

Bat Tours in Austin Guide + FAQs

When do the bats fly in austin.

The bats in Austin, Texas usually start to emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset from late March through November. The peak season for bat-watching is typically from mid-June to mid-August, when the largest number of bats are present.

However, the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions and other factors, so it’s a good idea to check with local tour operators for the latest information on bat flight times.

What months can you see the bat bridge in Austin?

From late March to November, visitors to Austin, Texas can witness the fascinating emergence of bats from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. The prime time for bat-watching is during the peak season from mid-June to mid-August, when the largest population of bats can be seen in flight.

What is the best bat viewing spot in Austin?

If you’re looking for the best bat viewing spot in Austin, there are a few options available. One popular way to watch the bats is by taking a bat boat tour on Lady Bird Lake. With an experienced guide leading the way, you can sit back and relax as you take in the sight of over 1.5 million bats taking flight from the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Another great option is to watch the bats from the Lady Bird Lake hike-and-bike trail, which offers a stunning view of the bats as they fly overhead. Many tour operators offer guided bike tours along the trail, which is a perfect way to explore the area and learn more about Austin’s history and culture while taking in the bat spectacle.

What is the best time to see bats in Austin?

The best time to see bats in Austin is from late March to November. During this time, the bats are present in the area and can be seen flying out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. The peak season for bat-watching is typically from mid-June to mid-August, when the largest number of bats are present.

The exact timing of the bat emergence can vary depending on weather conditions, so it’s important to check with local tour operators. However, in general, the bats start to emerge from the bridge at sunset, so it’s recommended to arrive at the viewing location about 30 minutes before sunset to ensure you don’t miss it!

What date do the bats come out in Austin?

The emergence of bats from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin is a natural phenomenon that typically occurs daily from late March through November at sunset. However, the exact date and time can vary from year to year, and is dependent on a number of factors such as weather conditions and the behavior of the bats.

The peak season for bat-watching in Austin is generally from mid-June to mid-August, as this is when the largest number of bats are present. During this time, visitors have a greater chance of observing the bats as they swarm out from under the bridge in search of food.

Austin, Texas Bat Tours + Cruises

Taking a bat tour in Austin is a must-do experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list! Whether you choose to watch the bats from a kayak, bike, or segway, you’re sure to be amazed by the sight of more than 1.5 million bats taking flight from under the Congress Avenue Bridge.

And with the added bonus of exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and learning about its history, a bat tour in Austin is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t forget.

So why wait? Book your bat cruise in Austin and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Texas!

Sierra Schmidt is the founder of Very Truly Texas as well as the lead writer and photographer. She is a Texas local living near Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and exploring every inch of this vast state.

She provides detailed itineraries, inspiring images, and hidden gems to encourage locals and visitors to discover their own next adventure in the great state of Texas!

Similar Posts

Sweetest Spots for Strawberry Picking in Austin (2024)

Experience the Georgetown Christmas Stroll (2023)

15 Best Pumpkin Patches in Austin TX in 2023

Apple Orchards in Texas for Apple Picking (2023)

A-Maze-ing Texas Corn Mazes to Visit this Fall 2023

7+ Best Christmas Tree Farms in Austin in 2023

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Leave a Rating for Capital Cruises Bat Watching and Sightseeing Tours

In order to verify you are a real person, we ask that you please fill out the form below.

Please choose a rating before submitting.

View Our Content

Get in touch, connect with us.

• Restaurants
• Things To Do
• Golf Courses
• Best Bars in Austin

Capital Cruises Bat Watching and Sightseeing Tours

4.8 1525 votes

208 Barton Springs Road

(512) 480-9264

Capital Cruises Bat Watching, Sightseeing, and Dinner Cruises

Capital Cruises Bat Watching and Sightseeing Tours Gallery

Contact Capital Cruises Bat Watching and Sightseeing Tours

All fields are required unless indicated.

Featured Things To Do in Austin

1. Blow Your Mind at Wonderspaces

Arriving in Austin during covid, Wonderspaces offers 28,000 square feet of art installations to dazzle every corner of your mind, like Hoshi By NONOTAK Studio (pictured above.) An exquisite fun hou...

2. Ride in Style with a Haunte...

Locals and visitors alike rave about the dark, spooky style of Haunted ATX hearse limo and van tours. One of the more unique experiences in Austin that is seriously keeping Austin weird, this tour ...

3. Check out the World Famous ...

View the Congress Bridge Bats is Austin's most popular tourist attraction for a reason. It's simply a marvel. Watch as 1.5 million bats pepper the sky in their nightly departure from Congress Bridg...

4. Take a Splash with Austin D...

One of the first tours to show visitors around town and the only land and water tour available, Austin Duck Adventures is one of the most popular tours in town. The tour starts at the Austin Visito...

5. Pet Your Next Kitty at Purr...

Do you believe in furry tails? Indulge your kitty fix or adopt your new family member with a visit to the newest, coolest, chic lounge in Austin...Purrfecto. This is the only cat lounge in Austin a...

6. Break Out of Prison + More ...

Located downtown next to the Austin Visitor Center, this is the #1 escape room in Austin. You and your friends will work together to find clues and overcome challenges to ultimately complete a miss...

7. Take a Wild Ride at Slick D...

Gather the girls and head to Slick Dick’s for some Texas sized fun at one of the only arcades of its kind. Take a wild ride with your ride-or-dies on their mischievous mechanical member, Marvin. Sm...

8. Work out Your Frustrations ...

One of the most exotic Austin things to do, Unchartered Adventures features a variety of high octane activities. Originally they featured a Rage Room full of breakables, suited up guests in protect...

9. Snap Some Selfies at the Te...

Austin and Texas are at odds when it comes to politics. Exploring the Texas State Capitol is a unique Austin experience and may help you understand the complexities of the local political scene. Wh...

10. Dine at the Best Austin Res...

Everybody has a friend that claims their city has the most restaurants per capita. You hear that from Austin locals all the time. While it may not offer the most restaurants per capita, it's defini...

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Dismiss

Austin Bats Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Tours

Check out the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats on a kayak tour with Live Love Paddle. See and learn about one of the World's Largest Urban Bat Colonies! Our store is located in next to Radio Shack in ground floor of the AMLI South Shore Apartments located at 1602 East Riverside Drive on Lady Bird Lake. We'll gear up from there and then kayak up the lake to see the bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge. We are the ORIGINAL Congress Bridge Bat kayak tour company in Austin and know how to view them best! Check out our F.A.Q. for frequently asked questions about the Bat Tour.

During the winter season check out our Urban Kayaking Tour of Downtown Austin! See some of Austin's most popular sites, hear some local history and facts, and learn about the famous Congress Avenue Bridge Bats that reside in Austin from March to November.

Tour Details

• Trip Length: 2 - 2.5 hours (please allow 2.5 - 3 hours from meeting time)
• Minimum Weight: 30lbs
• Mon and Thu: $55 per person plus tax
• Fri/Sat/Sun: $60 per person plus tax

*kayaks, paddles, PFDs, and drinking water are provided on every trip!

• Bat Watching Tour
• Urban Kayaking Tour
• Team Building

Live Love Paddle © 2018. All rights reserved. Highly Ranked on the Top 25 Things To Do in Austin -->

Internationally Famous Bat Watching Tour

Largest urban bat colony in the world

Watch the bats emerge nightly on our Public Bat-Watching Tour, running from March through mid-November. Or customize a private excursion with dinner, cocktails, and more. See dinner cruise and party boat pricing for rates.

Guided Kayak Tours

Sightseeing tours, private events, capital cruises fleet.

An experience like no other

Welcome to Capital Cruises

Deep in the heart of Austin, TX, we are proud to offer lunch and dinner cruises, wedding events, internationally famous bat-watching excursions, party boat services, and the ultimate alternative for group and corporate outings.

Where are you located?

We are on the boat dock at the lakeside of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. The Hyatt is located at 208 Barton Springs Road near the intersection of Congress and Barton Springs on the south side of Town Lake. Click here for Map and Directions .

Where can we park?

Unfortunately, there is very little free parking in the area. The Hyatt Regency does have a multi-level parking garage. Parking there should be $25.00 per vehicle for up to 3 hours, after which you may be subject to additional charges. Alternatively, you can typically pay to park at the surface lot adjacent to the hotel, though prices for this and other pay lots in the area may vary depending activities in the surrounding area. Both the Long Center for Performing Arts and Austin City Hall have large pay-parking structures and are a short walk from the dock. Also, One Texas Center off of Riverside Drive typically has available parking. Guests may drop off passengers at the front door of the hotel, but parking there is limited to 5 minutes. Please see map for directions .

When should we arrive?

For PRIVATE CRUISES, boarding time is usually 15 minutes in advance of departure (check with dock personnel for your specific cruise). For larger groups (~20 or more), we suggest telling your group to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow for traffic or other possible delays. If our schedule permits, arrangements can be made for some members of your party to arrive earlier for set-up, decoration, etc. For PUBLIC CRUISES, check-in starts 30 minutes prior to departure. Reservations must be claimed no less than 15 minutes prior to departure, or they are no longer guaranteed, even if they are prepaid. Prepaid reservations are non-refundable unless the reservation was canceled at least 72 hours in advance.

See Austin like never before

Team Building

Live Entertainment

Casino Night

Check out our

Popular Entertainment Add-on Packages

Expert crew members

Meet the Skippers

Kevin Martin

Mike hardson, christine eve.

Our benefits

Why Choose Us

No hidden fees, maintenance of boats, experienced team, come see the spectacle of the world's largest urban bat colony stream from the bridge nightly..

News & Articles

Our Logbook

• Josh Duggan

Donut Boats and Duffy Boats

Show your friends and family the best time on one of our motorized vessels that you can rent and operate yourselves!  First Donut Boats in Texas! The Donut Boat’s unique design seats up to 10 people around a center table, outfitted with a center-post umbrella to shade you while cruising Lady Bird Lake. The quiet […]

Our Brand New Website is Ready to Launch!

We’ve been working behind the scenes for the past few months, poring over every last detail, overhauling our website to best serve you, the customer. Just like the next cruise you book or boat you want to rent, we’re ecstatic to be launching this incarnation of CapitalCruises.com. Throughout the brand new site, you’ll find a […]

Now offering Guided Sunset Tours

Looking to kayak at sunset on the lake? Capital Cruises now offers a Guided Sunset Kayak Tour Thursdays through Saturday evenings. Cost is $40 per person and includes a ~1.5 hour tour. See the striking downtown skyline as well as a great view of the sunset cast against the lake. Thursday – Saturday evenings departing […]

Get a no obligation quote today

• Austin Tours
• Bat Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• Attractions

Everything you need to know about Austin’s Congress Bridge Bats

Don’t Miss the Annual 2023 Bat Fest

Live music, food & drinks, tons of vendors, and 1.5 million bats? You don’t want to miss out on this yearly event in ATX. Visit www.batfest.com  for complete details and music lineup! 2 million Mexican Free Tail Bats, 2 stages of music, arts and crafts, food, kids activities. Get your tickets here!

Guide to the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats

Hello and welcome to Austin Bat Tours, where we have all the top tips on where the fabled Mexican (or Brazilian) Free-Tailed Bat likes to hang out! These interesting and fastidious little bug eaters are actually pretty common in terms of animal population, but in recent years destruction of their nesting sites has earned them a place on the protected species list in some States – making the best place to see them on an Austin Bat tour all of your very own!

Why We Are Bat Crazy

Here at Austin Bat Tours we believe Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge bats are for everyone. We want to share that love with other enthusiasts by providing a safe and welcoming environment in which you can enjoy this spectacular sightseeing opportunity for the unforgettable experience that it is. We take pride in providing only the very finest quality in informative and engaging tours run by our highly trained and fully professional guides – who love bats as much as we do and who are always happy to help!

If you find these furry little creatures fascinating, then you will be happy to know that we operate tours in and around the city that are specifically devised to let you see as many bats as possible. We know all the little nooks and crannies that they like to hide in at the Congress Avenue Bridge. We operate evening tours (since evening is the best time to see them) that will show you our beautiful city as well as our beautiful furry friends. When you book with Austin Bat Tours you book with the best!

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

Bat Flight Time: About 45K bats under the bridge; taking flight before or during sunset from 7:45 - 8:18 p.m.

Admission: Free

Parking: Combined Meter/Free Parking Lots Interspersed Throughout the City

What to Wear: Dress Warmly for this Post-Sunset Spectacle. Besides that Anything Goes. It is not unusual for “Batman” to show up several times a week.

You Will Need: Your Camera, a Picnic Blanket and your Sense of Adventure! Snacks are Sensible Too.

Your Safety Matters to Us

We care for your comfort and safety when you come on a tour with us, so please make sure to dress in your summer clothes as Bats favorite the warm weather and are mostly visible from October to March when it can get to 90 to 100 degrees. If you fancy something entirely different we even operate kayak tours that give you the chance to spy these magnificent creatures from the water. Not only is this an unforgettable excursion it also lets you see our splendid city in the most spectacular way!

See Many Bats

The Mexican Free-Tailed bats love to nest in our awesome city. Known as the fastest horizontal flyer on the planet and able to reach recorded speeds of 160 km/h; their departure every sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge is world renowned – and so it should be, with its unimaginable colony of 1.5 million of them!

So, to book your bat-based extravaganza either by sea or by land contact us today . We love to hear from other bat lovers and no question is too big or too small. You can also visit our shop to browse all the best in bat goodies. If you want to stay ahead of the curve in all things Mexican Free-Tailed Bats then please do sign up for our mailing list , where you can get access to special bat new and discounts that’s enough to make any fellow bat fan smile!

Please enjoy your visit with Austin Bat Tours and if there is anything else we can do for you just let us know!

Featured Congress Bridge Bat Video!

Congress bridge bats in austin, texas.

Most of the visitors that venture into Austin, Texas have heard of the city’s reputation for being home to a colony of Mexican Free-Tailed Bats.  Often overlooked, however, is the fact that Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge over Lady Bird Lake is one of the few locals that bats truly inhabit, and it is one of the biggest colonies of urban bats on the entire planet.  Many bat watchers from around the globe visit the Congress Bridge between Spring and Fall, to witness these majestic-winged creatures in flight.

If you are familiar at all with bats, you know that they are nocturnal creatures by nature, and as the sun sets, they take flight, looking to consume any and all unsuspecting insects that happen to be airborne.  With a flight speed of 60 miles per hour, insects do not stand a chance, leaving  spectators awestruck by the bats amazing and erratic flight patterns.  Each evening, the flight path of the bats is unique and different from the previous, creating anticipation as bat enthusiasts await the cacophony of nocturnal, leathery wings.

Generally, the bats known simply as “scouts” will break the cavern enclosure initially, ensuring that no predators are waiting nearby.  The scouts will then signal the remaining bats that all is clear causing up to three massive streams of bats to rocket out of the cave and take to the skies!

Austin Bat Fest

Once a year, Austin, also known as “Bat City”, hosts an extravagant celebration in honor of the Mexican Free-Tails.  People from all around gather together to celebrate these mammals with food, professional vendors, and music.  Tourists, bat aficionados, and locals alike, all take pride in and cherish this annual event.

Where Did They Come From?

If legend can be trusted, the Mexican Free-Tail bats started to frequent Austin, Texas, from spring to fall, at the same time the Congress Avenue Bridge was renovated, which attracted the bats already living in the drains located in the underbelly of the northern part of the bridge, seemingly by accident, and caused other bats of the same species to migrate from Mexico with the local bats making the same migration.  The bats were happy to find that the miniscule crevices under the bridge were ideal for building a colony and housing many, many bats.  With the assistance of time, purportedly, the colony eventually grew to be about one and half million strong, which is impressive, to say the least.

The bats population reached maximum capacity in approximately three years, stacking on top of one another in the aforementioned crevices.  This brought about the locals dubbing the northern portion of the bridge the “nursery”, which is where the mama bats leave their offspring as they go about their night-time insect hunting.  They then return to the nursery and use scent and echo location to find their bundles of nocturnal mammalian joy, which they then nurse before resting.

Having discovered Congress Bridge, the bats now make an annual migration from Mexico to Austin , Texas from the spring time to the fall, which would be the perfect time for any bat watchers or curious tourists to come visit the city and observe these marvelous mammals!

The Austin locals are also happy with the environmentally conscious bats whom eat an estimated thirty thousand pounds of insects every single night, reducing the need for any pesticide usage.  Not to mention that those pesky mosquitoes virtually do not exist due to the hungry creatures eating them every night.

About the Bats

When the bats initially migrate back to Austin, Texas, there will approximately be about 750,000 bats, which are, in their entirety, made up of pregnant females.  The colony, at this point is a “maternity colony”.  During their time as a maternity colony they will each birth one pup, generally creating an equal gender ratio within the colony, effectively doubling the colonies size to one and a half million!  That is a whole lot of bats!

The newborn pups will generally stay at the colony for the first season, or so, of their lives, but the mothers that birthed them can always be expected to return to where they birthed their offspring the year prior.  With all of the female bats in Austin, let us not forget about the bountiful male population, as well.  The male bats will generally cluster in small groups ranging from twenty to one hundred, often times being found roosting on building alcoves, and the like.

These aforementioned Mexican Free-Tailed bats can live almost a decade and can weigh approximately twelve grams with a wingspan of eleven, or so, inches.  If they do not spread their wings, however, they are the size of an average adult’s palm.

Mexican free-tailed bats live for 8-9 years and only grow to weigh roughly 12 grams. Their wingspan is about 11”, but with their wings retracted, they can fit in the palm of a hand.

Another interesting fact about Austin’s bats are that in the early years of the 1980s, Austin locals worried about rabies infection and the implications therein of the bat populace outnumbering that of the local humans.  Purportedly, the locals petitioned for the extermination of the bats and the dismemberment of the colony.  If it were not for the Bat Conservation International organization, the bats may not have been around for the enjoyment of the individuals now.

If a bat ever contracts rabies, typically they have approximately seventy-two hours until they die, and are often experiencing the initial symptom of paralysis.  With that being said, if you see a grounded bat, do not touch it, as it may, in fact, have rabies.  If you happen to touch, or be bitten, by a downed bat, be sure to capture it and have it tested for rabies to ensure that you have not unknowingly contracted the disease.

Another bit of information that should be known is that, although the Mexican Free-Tail bat is a powerful and agile flyer, the young bats tend to fly at a lower altitude and can have trouble with lifting off, causing them to fall into the water.  If a young bat is spotted in the water, simply leave it be, as it will attempt to “backstroke” to one of the bridge pylons and clamber to safety.

Where Can Someone See the Bats?

The Mexican Free-Tail bats can be found in quite a few places around Austin.  Not only are they seen in most of the caverns and caves dotting the countryside, but they can be seen just south of Austin, at Bracken Cave, at the Hancock Center, at McNeil Overpass and the I-35 bridge, and dotting the alcoves and sides of various buildings around the city.

The Statesmen Bat Observation Center, just southeast of Congress Bridge, does not cost much, and is available for public use.  With standing room along the top portion of the bridge and the closest parking to Congress Bridge, the Observation Center is definitely worth looking into if you want to see the bats.

If looking for bats by yourself does not seem too appealing, then you could always jump on one of the Austin Bat Tours, such as the Walking Tour, the Kayak Bat Sunset Tour on Lady Bird Lake, or the Bat Photo Tour.

Guide to Watching the Bats and Austin Bat Tours

With three different ways to experience the “Bats of Austin”, the bat tours will make for a memorable experience that will last a lifetime.

The Bat Walking Tour is approximately a ninety-minute tour guided by one of Austin’s leading bat experts.  Initially, the meeting point before the start of the tour is the Hyatt Hotel.  From there, the walk begins towards the Congress Bridge and stops at the Statesmen Observation Center where the bat experts then explain, in a thorough and vividly detailed manner, the history and backstory of Austin’s bats and how it all came about.

The Kayak Bat Watching Sunset Tour typically consists of a one hundred and twenty to one-hundred-and-fifty-minute endeavor that embarks from the Kayak Tour Offices on Riverside Drive and is an amazing way to view Austin up close and personal.  This tour encompasses some of Austin’s more historical and awe-inspiring sights, along with viewing the bats gobbling down bugs.

The Photo Tour is approximately a one-hundred-and-twenty-minute guided tour that begins at Congress Avenue Kayaks.  This tour is guided by a professional photographer who explains how to take amazing photographs of these majestic mammals.

One of the tips given on the Photo Tour is to shoot video instead of taking photos, as cellular devices typically do not have a fast-enough shutter speed to capture these agile animals in flight.

The various bat tours begin in the evening, and start in early March, proceeding until November.  Worst case scenario is that the bats do not take flight due to inclement weather, but the tours still afford many amazing photo opportunities.

Austin Bat Tours is a proud sponsor of Batcon and the Austin Bat Refuge. We make an annual sales donation to support these fine organizations:

Bat Conservation International http://www.batcon.org/

Austin Bat Refuge https://austinbatrefuge.org/

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Dismiss

New Years Eve Cruise

Lone Star is having our annual New Years Eve Dinner Cruise! On Friday, December 1st from 8pm to 10:30pm, we will enjoy the lights of downtown plus the City of Austin fireworks show from the best spot in town. We will be serving a deluxe fajita dinner plus unlimited non-alcoholic drinks (bring your own alcohol) on this very special night to start off the celebration. Cruise, dinner, and tips are included in the price of $95.00PP – great for the whole family. Purchase tickets online. Use the button below for more information.

4 th Of July Cruises

Lone Star is hosting our annual 4 th Of July Cruises! Our Dinner cruise has already sold out, but you can still view Austin's bats and annual firework show on one of our pontoon boats. Space is very limited, so get your tickets now!

Austin's Most Popular Tours

Weekend sightseeing cruises, evening bat watching tours, friday night moonlight cruise, optional pretitle -->public tours.

Pick from one of Lone Star Riverboat's public tours down Lady Bird Lake. These tours include commentary by the captain. You are welcome to bring your own beverages on the Little Star, Southern Star, and Lone Star. The Lone Star has a non-alcoholic cash bar available.

Optional pretitle -->Our Boats

Choose from one of three different Lone Star Riverboats to host your next Austin adventure. Lone Star offers a luxurious double-decker paddle-wheel riverboat and three smaller boats ideal for sunsets and bat watching.

Optional pretitle -->Private Charters

Imagine your social occasion on a delightful cruise right through the heart of downtown Austin, Texas aboard a Lone Star Riverboat. Private charters are available year-round for groups of 30 to 100 people.

Lone Star Riverboat About Us

Located on Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) in Austin, Texas. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises and Austin are the two shining stars of Texas!

Join us aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly vessels. Experience the exhilaration of the outdoors, the abundant waterfowl, our ever changing city skyline and the natural beauty that is Austin. We offer public, narrated sightseeing cruises or witness the spectacular emergence of the world famous Mexican free-tailed bats on our sunset/bat watching cruises! Come see the sights and learn about Austin or jazz up your next occasion and have a private party aboard The Lone Star, the largest electric powered paddle wheeler in the nation.

Our staff at Lone Star Riverboat is committed to excellent customer service and making your trips as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. We want to show you Austin in Texas-friendly style.

We are a city concession and a portion of our gross sales goes to support our nationally recognized park system. Fred DuPuy is the new owner of Lone Star Riverboat which has been in business as an Austin icon since 1987.

Reviews Everybody Loves Cruises

"Lone Star Riverboat tours have consistently been one of the most popular tours in Austin. Their sightseeing, moonlight and afternoon cruises are a great way to see the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake. Their bat watching tour lands them consistently at the #1 activity in our Things to do in Austin Guide during bat watching season." ~ Ivan Collins Austin City Guide

"It was so fun, Captain Chris was so interactive and fun. I would recommend coming here if you are in Austin! Make sure to make a reservation so they can secure your spot on the boat!" ~Rachel E. October 2020

"Really enjoyed our boat ride on Lady Bird Lake! The host was funny, the ride was smooth, and the city landscape was BEAUTIFUL! I definitely would recommend and plan on bringing my family next time." ~Sarah M. October 2020

"We rented the boat for our reverse Rehearsal Dinner...The price is very reasonable and then you get to bring your own alcohol and food...The Captain walked me through how the night would go and then walked me through the invoice at the end. He is very kind! Joye was our sales contact and she was very accommodating and helpful through the whole process, answering all of my questions on linens, food, timing, etc." Kristin Davis November 2019

"Great excursion in Austin. Our boat captain was very fun and knowledgeable. Put us in the perfect location for bat viewing." ~Alison August 2020

"Beautiful sunset and Austin skyline. Educational and fun! The captain talked about the buildings in the Austin skyline and another person educated about the biology of the bats." ~Bonnie M. April 2019

"In addition to watching the bats, the boats will take a quick tour down Lady Bird Lake. The captain gave us information on the different landmarks (Stevie Ray's statue, etc.) while downtown Austin moves all around us. It was wonderful!" Kathy Roy November 2019

Special Offers

Check out valentines day cruise.

• Map & Contact
• Parking Tips

Lone Star Riverboat © 2017. All rights reserved. Designed by Things to do in Austin -->

Visit Bracken Cave Preserve

An unforgettable sight.

Bracken Cave is the summer home of more than 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats ( Tadarida brasiliensis ), making it the world’s largest bat colony and one of the largest concentrations of mammals on earth. The emergence of these millions of bats, as they spiral out of the cave at dusk for their nightly insect hunt, is an unforgettable sight.

During the summer months, guests can expect to experience a tornado of bats emerging from the beautiful Texas hill country setting.  Advanced reservations are required. Please read our Bracken Cave Preserve visitation FAQs . If you are trying to book a group visit  for your club, class or other organization, email  [email protected] .

See below for the 2024 Bracken Bat Flight Schedule

2024 bracken bat flight schedule.

• Member Access Codes to register for Member-Only Bracken events were emailed to members. Please be sure to check your spam or junk folder. If you still cannot locate your member access code, please email [email protected] .
• Non-Members – REGISTER HERE

Join or Renew Your Membership Now

* Members supporting BCI with a $45 annual membership and those who have added an annual membership to an adopt-a-bat may bring a party of 4 including the member to one Member Bat Flight per season. Members supporting BCI monthly or with a $60+ annual membership may bring a party of 6 including the member to one Member Bat Flight per season. General Member Bat Flights are free for current Bat Conservation International Members and their guests, however, special Adult-only Member Bat Flights and Member Morning Returns require a fee of $10 per person. All Member Bat Flights are subject to availability and do fill up. Member access codes cannot be applied to Public Bat Flights. Bat flight schedule is subject to change.

Many of these dates are already at capacity. Please use the registration links above to check availability.

The largest known bat maternity colony in the world.

The bats of Bracken Cave comprise the largest known bat maternity colony in the world, producing millions of young each year. In March and April, expectant females return to Bracken after overwintering in Mexico, Central and South America. Most males roost elsewhere in smaller groups. In the latter part of June, females give birth to a single pup, nearly doubling the cave’s population.

After the bats give birth, the naked pups are left on cave walls in dense clusters called creches. These creches become densely packed, sometimes exceeding 400 pups per square foot. Babies roost separately from their mothers. The densely packed creches help keep the small, hairless pups warm while mom is out hunting. When the mother returns, she accomplishes a remarkable feat: she finds her own young among the millions of other pups through a combination of spatial memory, vocalizations, and scent. Mothers will visit the creche to nurse often during the day and return from feeding to nurse twice at night.

After four to five weeks, youngsters begin learning to fly under the most difficult of conditions. If all goes well on its first flight, a young bat drops into complete darkness, flies at a speed of at least 20 feet per second, and turns an almost complete somersault with millimeter precision to land on the cave wall just seconds after taking off. It must also avoid several collisions a second with thousands of other young fliers testing their skills, while at the same time relying on an echolocation system that is itself being tested for the first time.

Collisions with other bats or cave walls can be fatal. An emergency landing is certain death; the floor is teeming with millions of carnivorous dermestid beetles that can reduce a young bat to a cleaned skeleton within a few minutes. Fatalities are high, and at least half won’t survive their first year.

By late July, young bats are ready to test their flight skills outside the cave, joining their mothers to feed on insects. Although they are weaned soon after, their initial energy demands are high, forcing nursing mothers to consume nearly their body weight in insects each night. To find sufficient food, the bats often emerge up to three hours before sundown, creating one of the most spectacular sights in all nature, an event spanning several hours .

Visitation FAQs

When can i visit bracken cave preserve.

The bats of Bracken Cave are migratory, so bat flights are only held during the summer months (May-Sept). Reservations are required. Details on visitation are posted on this page in March of each year.

How do I schedule a visit to Bracken Cave Preserve?

All visitors to Bracken Cave Preserve MUST make advanced reservations. The bat flight schedule is generally posted on this page by March of each year, and will provide details on how and when to make a reservation.

If you are interested in booking a private event or a group visit for your organization, please email [email protected]

Why isn’t Bracken open to the public to just stop by and go in?

The cave is located on private property that is owned, managed and protected by Bat Conservation International. To best protect this sensitive area, we must restrict access to small, reserved groups.

Is there somewhere nearby where I can stop and watch the bats from my vehicle?

The Mexican free-tailed bats that emerge from Bracken Cave Preserve quickly gain altitude and commonly fly at elevations of 3,000 to 10,000 feet. The bats are too high to see by the time they cross over the nearest streets.

I am a member. Am I guaranteed to be able to see a bat flight this summer?

Bracken bat flights are extremely popular and fill up each year. We recommend registering as early as possible. Registration generally opens the first week of April, but specific dates will be listed with the schedule that is posted in March. If the bat flights do sell out, check back frequently since spots do regularly show up as guests cancel their reservations.

How long does the visit last?

Plan to stay 2-3 hours depending on sunset. Please be on time. We cannot predict exact times when the bats will emerge, so we meet early enough so visitors have time before the emergence to learn about this important maternity colony.

What are the best months to view the bats?

July and August, because baby bats are born in June and begin flying in July; and days are longer which means more bat viewing time.

Can I leave early if I have something important to do?

Please be prepared to stay the entire 3 hours if you make a reservation with us. Arrangements can be made to leave early; please check with your guide upon arrival.

Where is the cave?

Turn left at Bracken Cave Road – look for the “BCI Event” sign.

If I am disabled, will I be able to make it to the cave?

We make every effort to accommodate guests of various ability, however Bracken Cave Preserve is a natural area. Pathways are not paved and can be uneven. We park persons with mobility needs as close as possible to the viewing area, but there is approximately 100 yards of mulched pathway between the closest parking or drop off and the viewing area. If you are concerned about your specific needs, please contact us ahead of time at  [email protected] .  Please let your guide know at check-in if you will be needing accommodation.

How far do I have to walk?

Approximately ½ mile on gravel trails.  Please consider physical limitations and the Texas summer heat when planning your trip.

Can I bring alcohol?

No alcohol is permitted.

Can I bring my dog (pet)?

No, only trained service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted to enter the Preserve. Additionally, if a particular service animal is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or if the animal is not housebroken, the handler will be required to remove the animal from the premises. Additionally, it is illegal to leave an animal in a vehicle. If you bring your pet, you will be denied entrance to the Preserve without a refund.

Can I bring my baby or young kids?

Please use discretion if you are considering bringing young children. Because Bracken Cave is located in a natural, unimproved area, children need to be supervised at all times and cannot “run-free”– so keep this in mind when making your reservation. Childcare services are not provided. Visits can last up to 4 hours and Texas summers are notoriously hot. We do not recommend bringing children under the age of 6 to Bracken for these reasons. Please also note that every individual (regardless of age) will need a reservation.

Can I smoke on the property?

No. Electronic cigarettes/vapes are also prohibited.

Can I bring a chair?

Chairs are not needed as there are benches.

Can I bring a snack?

Please eat before you arrive. Coolers are not allowed. No food is allowed in the viewing areas or along the trails. Small snack foods are permitted at the Welcome Area and at the Pavilion but are generally discouraged. Food attracts unwanted visitors, like fire ants and skunks.

What do I wear?

Comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes. Please keep in mind the heat.

What should I bring?

Cameras (please no flash photography), binoculars, sunscreen, bug repellant, and bottled water (again, no coolers please).

Are there bathrooms?

There is a unisex port-a-potty with hand sanitizer.

It’s the weekend and no one is answering my emails or phone calls. Why?

Please keep in mind that BCI is not open on the weekend, thus reservation requests and questions are not processed until the following week.

Will my car make it in on the roads to the cave?

Roads leading to the cave are rough and dusty. You may need to wash your car after your trip to Bracken but other than that, you should be fine.

Motorcycles are not allowed on the preserve. Their noise disturbs the wildlife.

Motor homes and RV’s are not allowed on the preserve, as the roads are rough and parking is limited.

Can we camp overnight?

Overnight camping is not allowed at this time.

Can I carry my handgun on site?

No. Visitors are not permitted to bring firearms of any kind onto Bracken Cave Preserve.

• X (Twitter)

Bat Watching Boat Tours in Austin

On my recent trip to Texas, I learned a lot about the bat watching boat tours offered in Austin that take visitors to see the infamous city bats. I had heard the stories of the massive bat colony residing in Austin, and wanted to find a unique way to see them instead of lining up on the bridge with hundreds of others. Taking to the water was the best idea because it gives a unique perspective from below as the bats emerge from their slumber and take off into the night sky. Below are some tips and recommendations for booking your own bat watching boat tour.

This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission. For more info, please see my  affiliate disclaimer .

When to take a bat watching boat tour in Austin

Best time of year.

The best time to see the infamous Austin bats fly over Lady Bird Lake is between March and November. If you’re looking to see the bats in full force, however, I recommend aiming for the warm summer months of July and August, with August being peak bat watching season. I still saw some of the bats in Austin in very early March, but there weren’t as many as you can expect later in the year.

Best Time of Day

The bats come out just after sunset. If you walk or boat under Congress Avenue Bridge before the sun goes down, the bats can be heard squeaking in the dark bridge crevices above you, getting ready to leave as soon as it’s dark enough. Be sure to get yourself a good viewing spot before the event begins, or book yourself the ultimate viewing opportunity on one of the bat watching boat tours in Austin.

What kinds of bats live in Austin, Texas?

The type of bats that live in Austin, Texas are Mexican free-tailed bats. They migrate from Mexico in the spring, and return in the fall. Of all the bridges along the Colorado River running through Austin, the entire colony of Mexican free-tailed bats choose to live under Congress Avenue Bridge. Their birthing season is in June, and the peak time for bat watching is in August. In August, the number of bats under the bridge reaches about 1.5 million, according to Visit Texas .

Which companies to use for bat watching boat tours in Austin

Capital cruises.

I used Capital Cruises to book my bat watching boat tour when I was in Austin. The entire experience was very smooth, and I would highly recommend them. The bat watching boats from Capital Cruises can be easily spotted by the iconic giant bat placed at the stern. Their check-in spot and dock is located right along Lady Bird Lake, and we showed up 30 minutes prior to departure and got a good seat on the boats. The tour, which lasted about an hour, took us cruising down the Colorado River for a sunset view of the Austin skyline. I enjoyed the bat facts and history from our tour guide about the building and sights around us.

After the sun went down, we made our way to Congress Avenue Bridge. I could see tons of people lined up on the bride, their dark silhouettes outlined against the night sky. People in kayaks were scattered around in the water as well, parked and waiting with a front row view for the bats to emerge. Our tour guide was prepared with a high powered red light, which had no effect on the bats, and allowed us to catch a good glimpse of them under the bridge and other darker areas. They are small bats and we had overcast skies, so they didn’t show up well in my photos, but I was happy I got to see them in person.

Lone Star Riverboat

The other boat company in Austin that operates bat watching boat tours is Lone Star Riverboat. I didn’t use this company, but I saw their check-in location at Lady Bird Lake and it looked very organized. Their red and blue boats stood out on the lake while we were out bat watching. Their tour seems to last about an hour as well, and they also were staffed with tour guides sharing the history of the bats and downtown Austin.

Tips for bat watching boat tours in Austin

• Show up early to get a good spot on the boat
• Bring a jacket as that breeze shows up on the water at sunset
• Bring a good camera. I prefer the Sony A6000 Mirrorless camera .
• Bring your own beverages and snacks, as there were none sold on the boat or dock
• Consider packing some binoculars if you’d like a closer view of the bats

Pin for Later: Bat Watching Boat Tours in Ausin

Planning a Trip to Texas?

• If visiting hill country, check out my article on visiting Jacob’s Well Swimming Hole in Wimberley
• Check out my Recommended Booking Sites for hotels, cars, flights, and activities
• Stock up on your photography supples with my Travel Blogging Photography Gear

Share this:

Related Posts

Expand your comfort zone with brave nu ventures, joshua tree packing list, visiting the beach at hotel del coronado.

Comments are closed.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Kayak and Paddleboard Tours on Lady Bird Lake in Austin, TX

Book a tour with one of austin's top-rated tour guides..

downtown sunset kayak with 1.5 million bats

Experience one of the most spectacular and unique sights in all of Texas, 1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed Bats emerge from under the Congress Bridge and fly into the night sky each night.

#1 BOOKED TOUR

Giant paddle with 1.5 million bats.

Join us as we see 1.5 million Mexican Free-tailed bats take off from under the Congress Ave Bridge at sunset. Giant paddleboards are just right for viewing the bats in their full glory.

Paddleboard Glow Tour

Popular tour, giant glow paddle board the downtown skyline with bats.

Embark on a mesmerizing adventure as you paddle board along the downtown skyline, surrounded by a radiant glow and the enchanting presence of bats.

City skyline

Go tubing in austin's spring water.

Tubing in Austin's spring water is a great way to spend your day. The water is refreshing, the scenery is beautiful, and the company is always good. Get ready for an awesome time with friends!

Daytime Paddle Board Tour

Giant paddle board the springs.

Explore Austin's beautiful Ladybird Lake with one of our daytime paddle board tours. Enjoy downtown views, historical landmarks, and all the nature Austin has to offer.

Downtown Skyline Tour

Come paddle the length of the downtown skyline with us at a leisurely place. We will have time to go all the way to Barton Springs and back.

Swing at the secret island

Birthday Sparks

Kayaking to the secret island

Fashion Magazine

Island style bocce ball

Blurred Lines

Rope swing at the secret island

Headed to the secret island

Jumping off the Barton Springs bridge

Picnic and games at the secret island

Aaron Bell, Tour Guide

Reviews from our kayak and paddle board tours:

Meet the guide.

Hi, my name is Aaron and I've hosted these trips hundreds of times and still love it! I know Austin and its outdoors and secret spots better than most. You can usually find me exploring on my dirt bike or swimming. I've traveled to more than 60 countries and I do all sorts of extreme sports along the way. I also rent houses in Austin month to month and organize a lot of social activities for our friend group. If you're coming to Austin and want to explore the outdoors, you won't find a better host. I've hosted guests at my houses since 2010 and on tours since 2011.

When it comes to exploring the beauty of Austin, Texas, one cannot miss the captivating allure of Lady Bird Lake. Nestled in the heart of the city, this scenic reservoir offers an unforgettable experience for kayaking and paddle boarding enthusiasts. As you embark on a guided tour with us, you'll discover the perfect harmony between nature and urban life. The serene waters of Lady Bird Lake are flanked by lush greenery, picturesque trails, and iconic landmarks, such as the Congress Avenue Bridge. Paddle along the shimmering waters, taking in breathtaking views of the Austin skyline, as the city's vibrant energy pulses around you. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, our tours cater to all skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable and immersive experience. So, grab your paddle and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Lady Bird Lake, a true gem in the heart of Austin.

Austin's Spectacular Bat Colony under South Congress Bridge

Prepare to be mesmerized by one of Austin's most captivating natural spectacles: the famous bat colony residing beneath the South Congress Bridge. This extraordinary attraction is a true marvel, as over a million Mexican free-tailed bats make this bridge their home from spring to early fall. As dusk descends upon the city, witness the sky come alive with a mesmerizing display of swirling wings and graceful flight as the bats emerge in search of their nightly feast. Join us on a kayak or paddleboard tour to witness this breathtaking phenomenon up close. As you glide along the gentle currents of Lady Bird Lake, positioned perfectly to witness the bats' exodus, you'll feel the rush of excitement as the sky transforms into a living tapestry. It's an experience like no other, where nature's wonders and human fascination converge. Join us and be captivated by the awe-inspiring bat colony under the South Congress Bridge, a truly unforgettable encounter.

Why Book A Tour With Us?

"must do" austin adventure guide.

When you book a trip with us, our confirmation email will send you a link to our list of must-do Austin activities to help you plan the rest of your trip. Things like what to do, where to eat, etc. People love this bonus because it makes everything easy. 

2000+ 5 star reviews

We've hosted over 10,000 tours and have collected hundreds of positive reviews ! People love us!

We'll take your photos

Our guides take high-quality photos for free using the latest Iphones and send them to you at the end of each trip.

Bad weather? Full refund!

If your tour is canceled due to bad weather you will receive a full refund automatically.

Follow us on Instagram!

Check out a few pictures from our recent tours:

Subscribe For Updates

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Text Messaging Preferred:

512-800-0145

[email protected]

All Rights Reserved | Boats & Bats

Website by Round house

GUIDED TOURS

$50 per person

Our Guided Tours offer the opportunity to see Austin in a whole new way — from Lady Bird Lake! Our Guided Kayak Tours are great for all ages, require no previous paddling experience and are available throughout the year. All tours are led by our experienced and knowledgeable guides. Tours also come with a complimentary water, paddles, lifevest and of course the kayak!

Guided Sunset Bat Tour

We are located right next to Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the Mexican Free-Tailed Bats. Our Sunset Bat Tour offers stunning views of Downtown Austin, fun facts about the local colony, and the chance to see the 1.5 million Mexican Free Tailed bats emerge from the bridge. A must do anytime in Austin!

Bat Season (April-September)

2024 Solar Eclipse Paddle

On April 8th the total solar eclipse will be visible in the Austin area. Join us for an on the water experience! Paddle through downtown Austin while experiencing this amazing event! Solar Eclipse Glasses will be provided with your ticket.

Downtown to Barton Springs Guided Tour

Follow our experienced guides on a fun-filled journey to Barton Springs! The natural spring fed water is a must see while in Austin. Not only will you see the clear waters, you will also see stunning views of the Downtown Austin Skyline.

City of Austin Skyline Tour

Experience the beautiful city of Austin from the heart of Downtown! Embark on a journey where you’ll see stunning views of the city, learn about the architecture of the skyline, and even see the magical Barton Springs! 

Group Reservation 

Large group? We can accommodate! Our group reservations are for groups 10 or larger. Whether its a birthday, team bonding event, or bachelorette party, getting out on the water is always a great choice. We are located in the heart of downtown and are walking distance from many hotels. 

• Fun Austin Tours
• Austin Hotels
• Austin Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• Attractions

Fun Tours to Explore Austin’s Unique Charm

1. Live Music Capital of the World Tour:

• Austin’s claim to fame as the “Live Music Capital of the World” is celebrated in this tour.
• Join a guided tour that takes you to iconic music venues, historic sites, and shares fascinating stories about the city’s musical legends.

2. Food Truck Tasting Tour:

• Dive into Austin’s thriving food truck scene with a guided tasting tour.
• Sample a variety of mouth-watering dishes from different food trucks, exploring the diverse culinary offerings that contribute to Austin’s reputation as a foodie haven.

3. Bat Watching Boat Tour:

• Take to the water for a unique perspective on Austin’s famous bat colony.
• Enjoy a boat tour on Lady Bird Lake at sunset to witness the Congress Avenue Bats emerging from beneath the bridge in a mesmerizing display.

4. Brewery and Distillery Tour:

• Austin is home to a burgeoning craft beer and spirits scene.
• Hop on a brewery and distillery tour to savor the local flavors, learn about the brewing process, and explore the city’s passion for craft beverages.

5. Haunted Austin Tour:

• For those who enjoy a touch of the supernatural, embark on a haunted tour of Austin’s most eerie locations.
• Professional guides share spine-chilling stories and take you to places with a reputation for paranormal activity.

6. Segway City Tour:

• Glide through the streets of Austin on a Segway for a fun and effortless city tour.
• Explore downtown, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy the breeze as you effortlessly navigate the city’s streets.

7. Kayak and Paddleboard Tour:

• Get active and explore Austin’s waterways with a kayak or paddleboard tour.
• Paddle along Lady Bird Lake or the Colorado River, taking in stunning views of the city skyline and natural beauty.

8. Murals and Street Art Tour:

• Austin’s streets are adorned with vibrant murals and street art.
• Join a guided walking or biking tour that showcases the city’s creative spirit, taking you to the most Instagram-worthy spots.

9. Wildlife Safari at the Austin Zoo:

• For a family-friendly adventure, head to the Austin Zoo for a wildlife safari.
• Get up close and personal with a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts in a scenic Hill Country setting.

10. Historic District Walking Tour:

• Immerse yourself in Austin’s rich history with a walking tour of its historic districts.

Learn about the city’s roots, architecture, and the people who shaped its unique character.

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

Bat Flight Time: About 45K bats under the bridge; taking flight before or during sunset from 7:45 - 8:18 p.m.

Admission: Free

Parking: Combined Meter/Free Parking Lots Interspersed Throughout the City

What to Wear: Dress Warmly for this Post-Sunset Spectacle. Besides that Anything Goes. It is not unusual for “Batman” to show up several times a week.

You Will Need: Your Camera, a Picnic Blanket and your Sense of Adventure! Snacks are Sensible Too.

Your Safety Matters to Us

We care for your comfort and safety when you come on a tour with us, so please make sure to dress in your summer clothes as Bats favorite the warm weather and are mostly visible from October to March when it can get to 90 to 100 degrees. If you fancy something entirely different we even operate kayak tours that give you the chance to spy these magnificent creatures from the water. Not only is this an unforgettable excursion it also lets you see our splendid city in the most spectacular way!

See Many Bats

The Mexican Free-Tailed bats love to nest in our awesome city. Known as the fastest horizontal flyer on the planet and able to reach recorded speeds of 160 km/h; their departure every sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge is world renowned – and so it should be, with its unimaginable colony of 1.5 million of them!

So, to book your bat-based extravaganza either by sea or by land contact us today . We love to hear from other bat lovers and no question is too big or too small. You can also visit our shop to browse all the best in bat goodies. If you want to stay ahead of the curve in all things Mexican Free-Tailed Bats then please do sign up for our mailing list , where you can get access to special bat new and discounts that’s enough to make any fellow bat fan smile!

Please enjoy your visit with Austin Bat Tours and if there is anything else we can do for you just let us know!

Featured Congress Bridge Bat Video!

Congress bridge bats in austin, texas.

Most of the visitors that venture into Austin, Texas have heard of the city’s reputation for being home to a colony of Mexican Free-Tailed Bats.  Often overlooked, however, is the fact that Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge over Lady Bird Lake is one of the few locals that bats truly inhabit, and it is one of the biggest colonies of urban bats on the entire planet.  Many bat watchers from around the globe visit the Congress Bridge between Spring and Fall, to witness these majestic-winged creatures in flight.

If you are familiar at all with bats, you know that they are nocturnal creatures by nature, and as the sun sets, they take flight, looking to consume any and all unsuspecting insects that happen to be airborne.  With a flight speed of 60 miles per hour, insects do not stand a chance, leaving  spectators awestruck by the bats amazing and erratic flight patterns.  Each evening, the flight path of the bats is unique and different from the previous, creating anticipation as bat enthusiasts await the cacophony of nocturnal, leathery wings.

Generally, the bats known simply as “scouts” will break the cavern enclosure initially, ensuring that no predators are waiting nearby.  The scouts will then signal the remaining bats that all is clear causing up to three massive streams of bats to rocket out of the cave and take to the skies!

Austin Bat Fest

Once a year, Austin, also known as “Bat City”, hosts an extravagant celebration in honor of the Mexican Free-Tails.  People from all around gather together to celebrate these mammals with food, professional vendors, and music.  Tourists, bat aficionados, and locals alike, all take pride in and cherish this annual event.

Where Did They Come From?

If legend can be trusted, the Mexican Free-Tail bats started to frequent Austin, Texas, from spring to fall, at the same time the Congress Avenue Bridge was renovated, which attracted the bats already living in the drains located in the underbelly of the northern part of the bridge, seemingly by accident, and caused other bats of the same species to migrate from Mexico with the local bats making the same migration.  The bats were happy to find that the miniscule crevices under the bridge were ideal for building a colony and housing many, many bats.  With the assistance of time, purportedly, the colony eventually grew to be about one and half million strong, which is impressive, to say the least.

The bats population reached maximum capacity in approximately three years, stacking on top of one another in the aforementioned crevices.  This brought about the locals dubbing the northern portion of the bridge the “nursery”, which is where the mama bats leave their offspring as they go about their night-time insect hunting.  They then return to the nursery and use scent and echo location to find their bundles of nocturnal mammalian joy, which they then nurse before resting.

Having discovered Congress Bridge, the bats now make an annual migration from Mexico to Austin , Texas from the spring time to the fall, which would be the perfect time for any bat watchers or curious tourists to come visit the city and observe these marvelous mammals!

The Austin locals are also happy with the environmentally conscious bats whom eat an estimated thirty thousand pounds of insects every single night, reducing the need for any pesticide usage.  Not to mention that those pesky mosquitoes virtually do not exist due to the hungry creatures eating them every night.

About the Bats

When the bats initially migrate back to Austin, Texas, there will approximately be about 750,000 bats, which are, in their entirety, made up of pregnant females.  The colony, at this point is a “maternity colony”.  During their time as a maternity colony they will each birth one pup, generally creating an equal gender ratio within the colony, effectively doubling the colonies size to one and a half million!  That is a whole lot of bats!

The newborn pups will generally stay at the colony for the first season, or so, of their lives, but the mothers that birthed them can always be expected to return to where they birthed their offspring the year prior.  With all of the female bats in Austin, let us not forget about the bountiful male population, as well.  The male bats will generally cluster in small groups ranging from twenty to one hundred, often times being found roosting on building alcoves, and the like.

These aforementioned Mexican Free-Tailed bats can live almost a decade and can weigh approximately twelve grams with a wingspan of eleven, or so, inches.  If they do not spread their wings, however, they are the size of an average adult’s palm.

Mexican free-tailed bats live for 8-9 years and only grow to weigh roughly 12 grams. Their wingspan is about 11”, but with their wings retracted, they can fit in the palm of a hand.

Another interesting fact about Austin’s bats are that in the early years of the 1980s, Austin locals worried about rabies infection and the implications therein of the bat populace outnumbering that of the local humans.  Purportedly, the locals petitioned for the extermination of the bats and the dismemberment of the colony.  If it were not for the Bat Conservation International organization, the bats may not have been around for the enjoyment of the individuals now.

If a bat ever contracts rabies, typically they have approximately seventy-two hours until they die, and are often experiencing the initial symptom of paralysis.  With that being said, if you see a grounded bat, do not touch it, as it may, in fact, have rabies.  If you happen to touch, or be bitten, by a downed bat, be sure to capture it and have it tested for rabies to ensure that you have not unknowingly contracted the disease.

Another bit of information that should be known is that, although the Mexican Free-Tail bat is a powerful and agile flyer, the young bats tend to fly at a lower altitude and can have trouble with lifting off, causing them to fall into the water.  If a young bat is spotted in the water, simply leave it be, as it will attempt to “backstroke” to one of the bridge pylons and clamber to safety.

Where Can Someone See the Bats?

The Mexican Free-Tail bats can be found in quite a few places around Austin.  Not only are they seen in most of the caverns and caves dotting the countryside, but they can be seen just south of Austin, at Bracken Cave, at the Hancock Center, at McNeil Overpass and the I-35 bridge, and dotting the alcoves and sides of various buildings around the city.

The Statesmen Bat Observation Center, just southeast of Congress Bridge, does not cost much, and is available for public use.  With standing room along the top portion of the bridge and the closest parking to Congress Bridge, the Observation Center is definitely worth looking into if you want to see the bats.

If looking for bats by yourself does not seem too appealing, then you could always jump on one of the Austin Bat Tours, such as the Walking Tour, the Kayak Bat Sunset Tour on Lady Bird Lake, or the Bat Photo Tour.

Guide to Watching the Bats and Austin Bat Tours

With three different ways to experience the “Bats of Austin”, the bat tours will make for a memorable experience that will last a lifetime.

The Bat Walking Tour is approximately a ninety-minute tour guided by one of Austin’s leading bat experts.  Initially, the meeting point before the start of the tour is the Hyatt Hotel.  From there, the walk begins towards the Congress Bridge and stops at the Statesmen Observation Center where the bat experts then explain, in a thorough and vividly detailed manner, the history and backstory of Austin’s bats and how it all came about.

The Kayak Bat Watching Sunset Tour typically consists of a one hundred and twenty to one-hundred-and-fifty-minute endeavor that embarks from the Kayak Tour Offices on Riverside Drive and is an amazing way to view Austin up close and personal.  This tour encompasses some of Austin’s more historical and awe-inspiring sights, along with viewing the bats gobbling down bugs.

The Photo Tour is approximately a one-hundred-and-twenty-minute guided tour that begins at Congress Avenue Kayaks.  This tour is guided by a professional photographer who explains how to take amazing photographs of these majestic mammals.

One of the tips given on the Photo Tour is to shoot video instead of taking photos, as cellular devices typically do not have a fast-enough shutter speed to capture these agile animals in flight.

The various bat tours begin in the evening, and start in early March, proceeding until November.  Worst case scenario is that the bats do not take flight due to inclement weather, but the tours still afford many amazing photo opportunities.

Austin Bat Tours is a proud sponsor of Batcon and the Austin Bat Refuge. We make an annual sales donation to support these fine organizations:

Bat Conservation International http://www.batcon.org/

Austin Bat Refuge https://austinbatrefuge.org/

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

• ARTS & MUSEUMS
• EDUCATIONAL
• Share / Invite
• Download PDF
• Email Collection

Error report has been sent successfully.

We will review your submission and make any necessary updates.

If you're a band, promotor, venue, or artist representative,

Consider becoming one of our verified users!

- speed up the creation process

- Add multiple events and artist at once

- Skip the holding period and publish automatically

Downtown Austin Giant Paddleboard Sunset Tour With Bats

Similar events.