Watch the Sky Come Alive: Flying Bat Observation Count at Briggs Woods Park
Join Hamilton County Conservation for a unique and educational night under the stars at Briggs Woods Park! The Flying Bat Observation Count will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Shelter 3.
This free, hands-on conservation program event invites nature lovers, families, and curious minds to learn more about Iowa’s fascinating bat population. The evening will begin with an engaging bat talk inside the shelter, followed by a live bat count just before dusk. Using hand tally counters, attendees will gather around the nearby bat houses to observe and record the number of bats emerging at dusk. Afterwards, participants will total the counts and County Naturalist, John Laird, will discuss the vital role bats play in our ecosystems, along with the threats they face from disease and human activity.
This event counts toward the Iowa Junior Naturalist Program—a free program for children ages 6–12 that encourages curiosity and participation in activities related to environmental education, conservation, outdoor recreation, and historical interpretation. It’s a great way for kids (and their adults) to explore nature and fulfill program requirements through fun, experiential learning.
“This is a great opportunity to see bats in action and learn why they’re so important to our ecosystem,” said John Laird, naturalist with Hamilton County Conservation. “We’ll also talk about how human activity and disease impact bat populations, and what we can do to help protect them.”
Registration is free but required at www.mycountyparks.com. For questions, contact John Laird at 515-297-0423.
Come discover the wonder of Iowa’s nocturnal wildlife and help count bats as they take to the skies!
Caption: Wildlife flies over Hamilton County Conservation parks at sunset. Photo Credit: Deb O'Brien
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