Fort Peck to Host Unique ‘Bat Walk’ Experience This Friday

FORT PECK — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host a live “bat walk” educational event at Fort Peck’s Downstream Campground Amphitheater on Friday, August 1, beginning at 8:30 p.m.

The program, organized in partnership with the US Army Corps of Engineers and Fort Peck Interpretive Center, will feature FWP biologist Nicole Hussey presenting on bat ecology and the important role bats play in local ecosystems.

“What do bats do at night? Aerobatics!” according to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announcement for the event.

Following Hussey’s presentation, participants will join a guided walk along the Downstream Nature Trail to observe bats as they begin their nighttime hunting activities. Staff will provide specialized bat detection equipment that allows participants to hear the sounds bats make while hunting and navigating through echolocation.

The event will also feature iPads that display visual representations of the bats’ echolocation calls, giving attendees a unique opportunity to both hear and see how bats navigate and hunt in darkness.

The family-friendly program is open to all ages, though Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recommends that children under 12 be accompanied by an adult.

Organizers suggest attendees bring flashlights, headlamps or glow sticks, insect repellent, and sturdy walking shoes for the nature trail portion of the evening.

The bat walk represents a collaboration between multiple agencies to provide educational opportunities about Montana’s wildlife. Fort Peck’s location along the Missouri River makes it an ideal spot for observing bats, which play a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

No registration is required for the free event. Participants should plan to arrive at the Downstream Campground Amphitheater by 8:30 p.m. on August 1.

For more information about the bat walk, contact FWP Region 6 at [email protected].