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Most bats echolocate at a frequency unheard by the human ear, however, some desert species emit echolocation calls within the range of human hearing.
Spotted bats (Euderma maculatum) are an elusive and widely-distributed species throughout the semi-arid deserts of North America. Sometimes called the “Oreo cookie bat,” they sport large, pink ears and spotted fur. Spotted bats roost high among sheer cliffs, but their clicking calls can be heard while they hunt for moths in the canyons of the Pacific Northwest.
Historically, spotted bats were thought to be extremely rare i or even locally extinct in the PNW. In 2005, however, listening surveys in Central Oregon revealed that spotted bats may be more abundant than previously recognized.
Pallid bats (Antrozous pallidus) are another of Oregon's high desert bat species. They have a wide range, spanning from Canada to Mexico. While pallid bats typically produce inaudible, high-frequency echolocation calls, this behavior changes while rearing pups. When in the vicinity of summertime maternity roosts, pallid bats will lower the frequencies of their calls to within the range of human hearing.
Serendipitously, both the spotted bat and pallid bat are found in similar arid cliffs and canyons habitats such that both species can be effectively surveyed simultaneously.
We will be sending volunteers out to search for both the spotted and pallid bat this summer. Surveys take place just after dark in a variety of locations, from city parks to the remote desert. This is a family-friendly research project and an excellent opportunity to get to know Oregon's night sky!
Data collection has ended
We have moved into our analysis phase. Check back in early 2027 to see results and project highlights.
And a HUGE thank you to everyone who has participated in the 6 years that this project has been going on!!
Where have Audible Bats volunteers ventured so far?
Resources
This year, we will have both digital and paper datasheets available.
To access the digital datasheet, download Survey123 on your phone or tablet. Open the app and tap, 'Continue without signing in.' Tap the tiny symbol in the search bar and then scan the QR code below. You can also open the datasheet by opening this link on you phone/tablet.
The paper datasheet can be downloaded by clicking the link below.
If you are unable to attend our in-person training at Smith Rock, you can still learn everything you need to know by watching one of our training videos. There will be a few different options depending on what kind of surveys you would like to do. We also have a few extra bat call videos for you to familiarize yourself with the sounds of spotted and pallid bats. All videos can be accessed on our YouTube channel.
Our volunteer site selection map can be used to find good locations for audible bats surveys. We have provided as much information as we can about survey site access and conditions, but please be aware that our team has not been able to visit most of these sites in person to verify things like road conditions.
There are a number of reasons to consider carpooling to our events! Our trainings and bat walks end after dark, which can make some folks a little unsure behind the wheel. Our overnight events often take place in remote areas and have limited parking availability. And who doesn't want to limit their carbon footprint? Feel free to use the document below to find other folks who might be interested in carpooling. We'll leave it to you to coordinate your trips with one another. There is a separate tab for each event.
Contact Us
Please note that there is no previous biology or backcountry knowledge required to become a community scientist. There are options for all physical abilities and outdoor experience. Find us on Facebook and Instagram.
For any questions, please contact Sara Rose, volunteer coordinator. We appreciate your interest in the Audible Bats Project.