Bat Day

A federally endangered Indiana bat is evaluated by a researcher during Mammoth Cave's Bat Night.

NPS Photo

Mammoth Cave National Park's annual Bat Day event returns September 5, 2026.

Bat Day is our annual celebration of all things bats. These remarkable mammals thrive within Mammoth Cave’s landscapes and contribute significantly to the health of our agriculture, forests, and ecosystems. Join scientists, educators, and park rangers for a full day of presentations, hands‑on learning, and evening field demonstrations to learn more about these amazing creatures.

All bat day events are free and do not require tickets or advance registration. Events are weather dependent.

Know before you go...

• Programs are outdoors; bring water, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Some evening activities may involve walking on uneven surfaces near the cave entrance.
• Accessibility: Amphitheater and visitor center programs include accessible seating; ask staff for assistance.

 

Schedule of Events — Saturday, September 5, 2026

Make sure to check back as we get closer to the event for any program updates!

 

Amphitheater Presentations

These activities will take place in the park's outdoor amphitheater.

10 a.m. — Protecting Wildlife Habitat through Cave Gates

11 a.m. — The Secret Lives of Bats

12 p.m. — Bat Speak

1 p.m. — Bat Conservation and Park Management Challenges

2 p.m. — Conserving Imperiled Bats

3 p.m. — Restoration and Recovery of Saltpeter Cave

4 p.m. — Chasing the Night Flyers

5 p.m. — Bats of Mammoth Cave National Park and How We Study Them

6 p.m. — Masters of Movement: The Biomechanics of Bats

 

Visitor Center Presentations

These activities will take place at the park visitor center.

1–3 p.m. — Wing Biomechanics and How Injury Influences Flight

1–3 p.m. — Being a Bat Biologist

1–3 p.m. — Face Painting

 

Live Research Demonstration

This activity will take place near the Historic Entrance to Mammoth Cave. 

7-9 p.m. — Bats in Hand

 

What is Bat Day?

Mammoth Cave National Park is home to diverse bat species that play vital roles in insect control, pollination, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Bat Day highlights ongoing scientific research, shares conservation strategies, and invites visitors to learn how they can support bats at home and in their communities to become “Bat Ambassadors.”

 

Bat Day sponsored by...

Bat Day is made possible by Friends of Mammoth Cave National Park, whose mission is to support projects and programs that protect, preserve, and enhance the natural and cultural resources and visitor experience of Mammoth Cave National Park. Friends provide essential assistance for Bat Day, including support for special speakers and event logistics.

Learn more about the Friends

 

Bats

Bats of all shapes and sizes.

Bat Surveys

Learn how park scientists study bats