Want to see bats in the wild? Here are 2 events happening in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Want to see bats up close? There are two upcoming events happening in southeastern Utah where you may get the chance.

Utah is home to 18 bat species, according to the Division of Wildlife Resources. They are unique in that they are the only mammals capable of true flight.

“They live throughout the state and can be abundant wherever they can find food, shelter and water,” a DWR release states. “Utah’s bats feed almost exclusively on insects.”

Courtesy of Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

They are reportedly a very important part of our ecosystem. While bats are often misunderstood and sometimes feared, the DWR said they are excited to provide some insight into their existence in Utah and give people a chance to see them up close.

“While southern Utah has the greatest diversity of bat species, DWR biologists conduct surveys statewide to learn more about the different species, where they are located throughout Utah and how their populations are doing,” the release states. “During these surveys, biologists use special nets — often placed near the water — to snare bats as they swoop down to eat insects. The biologists then quickly detangle the bats from the nets, identify the species, gather other health information and release the bats back into the wild.”

At the two upcoming events, visitors will have the chance to take a close look at the bats before they are released back into the wild. Details for those events are as follows:

• First Event — Saturday, Aug. 9, from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m in Nine Mile Canyon near Wellington, Utah
• Second Event — Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. at the Kane Creek Recreation Parking area in Moab

Participants will be required to wear an N95 mask when near the bats to help prevent health concerns to the bats, officials said. Masks will be provided or you can bring your own. Participants should also bring a small camp chair and flashlight or head lamp.