Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony emergence

Under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge lives a large urban colony of Mexican free-tailed bats whose nightly emergence from spring through early fall is a regular public spectacle. Researchers and Bat Conservation International estimate the colony numbers in the hundreds of thousands to over a million; estimates vary by season and study. The nightly emergence draws residents and visitors to viewing areas along Lady Bird Lake and has become a noted feature of Austin's local culture and ecotourism. The City of Austin and local organizations provide information and viewing guidance for spectators.