How Do You Visit Austin`S Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Colony?
Thanks in no small part to Bela Lugosi, bats have become a woefully unloved part of the natural world. Contrary to popular prejudices, however, bats can do humanity a world of good. In Austin, Texas, for example, a fluke of engineering gave a downtown bridge an unexpected twist: Its construction doubles as perfect housing for bats. Time your visit. Although the bats begin to move into the Congress Avenue Bridge by March, they only have their babies in June or July. As a result, the swarm is best seen in August or late summer, as the mothers and pups leave in tandem – all 1.5 million of them. Arrive well before sunset, to ensure that you don`t miss the festivities and can find a decent bat-watching spot. You may also want to bring a blanket and/or umbrella. Select your viewing spot. Although you can watch from the bridge`s sidewalks, there is also a public viewing area by the offices of the Austin-American Statesman, on the southeast end of Congress Avenue. You can also park at the near
