Although the Congress Ave bats are more famous, they actually aren’t the largest colony in Texas. The much lesser-known Bracken Cave near San Antonio boasts the biggest bat colony in the entire world. Watching them envelop the sky in darkness on summer evenings is truly spectacular.
Bracken Cave is the summer home of over 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats, making it the largest bat colony in the world as well as one of the highest concentrations on earth of mammals in general.
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The summertime emergence of these majestic creatures from the 100 foot wide half-moon opening at dusk is an absolutely unforgettable sight.
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As you gaze into the sky and watch them take flight, the previously empty blue canvas will transform into a sea of blackness in a matter of seconds.
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The cave is owned by Bat Conservation International, an organization with the sole mission to preserve the land in order for native plants and animals to thrive.
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Although access to the cave itself is prohibited, nightly guided tours lead you directly to its mouth to watch the spectacular show unfold.
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Have you ever been to Bracken Cave?
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Here’s a video of the bats in action. Prepare to be amazed.
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