Fort Collins Hosts 54th Annual Bat Research Symposium
Nearly 400 scientists and researchers have gathered in Colorado to discuss global bat monitoring and conservation efforts.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Bird Watching
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The 54th annual North American Symposium on Bat Research is currently underway in Fort Collins. Nearly 400 attendees are participating in workshops and technical presentations covering the study of the world’s 1,500 bat species.
Why it matters
Fort Collins serves as a critical national hub for biological research, home to the USGS Fort Collins Science Center and the North American Bat Monitoring Program. The symposium highlights ongoing scientific efforts to track and protect these diverse mammals.
This 54th annual gathering draws upon research related to more than 1,500 bat species found worldwide. The event includes specialized workshops focused on advanced tracking methods, such as acoustic monitoring and tagging.
The players
North American Symposium on Bat Research
This is an annual scientific conference dedicated to the study, ecology, and conservation of bat species across the continent.
USGS Fort Collins Science Center
This facility is a primary hub for federal scientific research and hosts the North American Bat Monitoring Program.
Stodgy Brewing Company
This is a local Fort Collins brewery providing themed refreshments for conference participants.
The details
Conference activities feature rigorous sessions on bat research methods alongside unique local engagement opportunities, including printmaking pop-ups and a tattoo station. Attendees are also enjoying bat-themed offerings from the local Stodgy Brewing Company.
Timeline
The North American Symposium on Bat Research is occurring the week of October 15, 2026.
The conference concludes on October 17, 2026.
The 2027 conference will be hosted in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Culture Shift
The event reflects a growing societal and scientific interest in biodiversity conservation through citizen science and public engagement. This trend moves niche biological research out of the lab and into the local community through creative collaborations with local businesses and artists.
Residents may see an increase in activity near the conference site as nearly 400 researchers convene for professional workshops. Local businesses, including Stodgy Brewing Company, are facilitating this influx with special events and themed products.
The takeaway
Wildlife enthusiasts can support conservation efforts by staying informed about local research and participating in public outreach events. Engaging with community science initiatives helps bridge the gap between academic study and public awareness.
What happens next
The 55th annual symposium is scheduled to take place in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 2027.
Further reading
For more information on local wildlife research and hobbyist events, visit the Bird Watching section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KUNC.
Live Poll
Do you view bats as beneficial creatures to the environment rather than spooky or gross?
