A vast flock of birds silhouettes against a golden sunset, creating a mesmerizing dance in the sky in Uvalde County, Texas

Bat Flight

The second-largest bat population in the world lives in Uvalde County. A jaw-dropping 10 million Mexican free-tailed bats reside within the famous Frio Bat Cave, making it one of the truly astounding natural attractions in the United States. Local tour guides take visitors through the caves during the warmer months, but the spectacle comes when the bats take flight. Though it’s unpredictable, the resident bats depart in the evenings to hunt, and those lucky enough to witness it will watch as clouds of these incredible creatures take to the sunset skies.

A natural rock archway frames a vibrant blue sky with scattered clouds, creating a serene and picturesque scene in Uvalde County, Texas

Bats at the Frio Bat Cave

Just before sunset, 10 to 12 million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from Frio Cave near Concan, Texas. Not only is the sight incredible, but the rush of millions of wings is so powerful that you can feel the breeze on your skin. The bats occupy the cave from mid-March through September each year to mate and give birth to their pups before heading south for the winter.

Visit the Cave

A Bat’s Eye View

Where Our Bats Live

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A dramatic sunset over a desert landscape with cacti silhouetted against a sky filled with birds in flight in Uvalde County, Texas

Help Us Care for Our Bats

Witnessing a massive bat emergence in Uvalde County is a spectacular natural event, but responsible viewing is essential to protecting these sensitive mammals and their habitats. To ensure the colony’s safety, please maintain a quiet demeanor and avoid sudden movements that might disrupt their flight patterns. Minimize light disturbance by refraining from flash photography or using bright white flashlights, which can disorient bats as they exit their roost. Always observe from a respectful distance, stay on designated paths to protect the surrounding environment, and never handle or touch a bat for your safety and theirs. By following these simple conservation guidelines, you help preserve this incredible Hill Country wonder for future generations.

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Get Ready

What to Expect

During the flight, keep your eyes peeled for merlins, zone-tailed hawks, peregrine falcons, and red-tailed hawks. These predators often lie in wait to hunt the bats once they take off. You may even see a ringtail cat or skunk entering the cave to hunt as well.

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Start Looking

Where to Look

Venture out to see the bats on your own, or join a tour with a local guide to learn more about the history of bats in the area and why they call it home. Handicapped parking and accessible viewing areas are available at the Frio Bat Cave.

A woman in hiking gear sits atop a rocky outcropping, gazing out from beneath a natural stone archway into a lush, green forest in Uvalde County, Texas

Additional Resources

Learn more about the bat capital of the United States by exploring bat facts, bat-watching etiquette, bat-watching locations throughout Texas, and more.

Texas Parks & Wildlife

State Parks & Natural Areas

Continue your wildlife watching adventure and explore the winding rivers and Hill Country forests that await you in nearby Texas State Parks & Natural Areas.

Hit the Trails

Where to Refuel

After a day outdoors, there’s nothing better than a good meal. Uvalde County’s restaurants serve up hearty Texas favorites like smoky barbecue and bold Tex-Mex. Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a taste of Hill Country comfort.

Explore Restaurants