The shy – if somewhat creepy – bat: An introduction to Missouri’s only flying mammal

The Missouri Department of Conservation is inviting residents to join its experts to get to know one of the creepiest creatures in the animal kingdom. For centuries, the humble bat has inspired horror novels and films, as well as arguably the world’s most famous superhero – Batman. But to this day, not many people would choose to get up close and personal with any of them. At least, I wouldn’t anyway. But the MDC think some people might.

As dusk begins to descend, you may have seen mysterious, shadowy forms fluttering through the air in what seem to be erratic directions, only to realize in a moment that you’ve just witnessed Missouri’s only flying mammal – the bat.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wants to peel away some of the mysteries behind these unusual yet important creatures by giving you a chance to see them up close.

MDC is inviting members of the public to a Bat Mist Netting program, Friday, October 11, from 6:30-8:30 pm at Emmenegger Nature Park in Kirkwood. The event is free and suitable for anyone age four and up.

The program takes a deep dive into Missouri’s bats with MDC bat biologist Shelly Colatskie (main picture). Colatskie will set up mist nets, very thin nets designed to gently trap local bats as they fly overhead in search of insects.

These nets are usually made of nylon or polyester mesh and suspended between two poles, much like a volleyball net. They are virtually invisible to bats and enable biologists and researchers to harmlessly capture them for study, after which they are released.

Colatskie will remove the bats from the net to check on their overall health and then weigh and sex them. This is a great opportunity for participants to see live bats up close and ask questions of MDC’s leading bat expert.

Participants should meet at the far end of Emmenegger Nature Park, close to the trail head. Bringing a camp chair or blanket, wearing comfortable clothes for being outdoors, a headlamp or flashlight, and insect repellant is also recommended.

Bat Mist Netting at Emmenegger Nature Park is a free program. However, advanced online registration is required https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Rm.

Emmenegger Nature Park is located near Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center at 11991 Stoneywood Drive, St. Louis, MO 63122. From Watson Road, turn north onto South Geyer Road, then west onto Cragwold Road. Continue past the Powder Valley entrance) and cross over the highway and left onto Stoneywood Drive.