Austin's Bat Colony

Austin has received international attention for its colony of up to 1.5 million Mexican free-tail bats that reside under the Congress Avenue Bridge during the summer months.

Every night at sundown, the bats leave their perch to feast upon the insects of the Hill Country. The best viewing is from the hike-and-bike trail, the bridge, or a free bat viewing area in the parking lot of the Austin American-Statesman at 305 South Congress Ave.

The best viewing months are July and August.

For more on the bats, check out the information kiosks at the Four Seasons Hotel at 98 San Jacinto Blvd. and the Austin American-Statesman parking lot on the south shore.

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