Campaign Seeks to Name Indiana Bat State Mammal

Advocates are pushing for the endangered species to become the official state symbol of Indiana.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Wildlife

Campaign Seeks to Name Indiana Bat State Mammal

Live Poll

Should your state legislature prioritize symbolic animal designations alongside other policy matters?

Desiree Coy is leading a campaign to designate the Indiana bat as the official state mammal. The effort aims to rebrand the animal from a spooky creature into a positive, iconic symbol for Hoosiers.

Why it matters

Proponents believe the Indiana bat is a little Hoosier hero that deserves formal state recognition. The movement seeks to raise awareness for the endangered species while celebrating its unique connection to the region.

The Indiana bat, which weighs 0.25 ounces with a 10-inch wingspan, represents the only animal in the world to bear the state's name. Currently, 37% of the population resides in Indiana, with 10 organizations and 11 mayors backing the proposal.

The players

Desiree Coy

She is the lead advocate campaigning to designate the Indiana bat as the official state mammal of Indiana.

The details

The campaign, which utilizes online petitions and traveling displays to educate the public, is currently working with a state representative to draft legislation. Supporters hope to shift the perception of the bat, which provides an estimated $3.7 billion in annual pest control savings to U.S. farmers.

1904: The Indiana bat was discovered in Wyandot Cave.
October 30, 2026: The current campaign for state mammal designation was highlighted.
December 2026: The advocacy campaign is expected to break for the holidays.

Culture Shift

This effort follows the established legislative pattern of designating official state symbols to foster regional identity. By rebranding an endangered species as a mascot, the movement mirrors broader societal shifts toward conservation-focused civic pride.

Residents can track the progress of the campaign or view educational materials through the group's Facebook page. The legislative proposal, if successful, would officially solidify the bat's status as a state icon.

The takeaway

The campaign highlights how public advocacy can influence state legislative priorities. Readers interested in environmental policy can follow the progress of the bill to see how local symbols shape conservation awareness.

What happens next

The Our State, Our Bat campaign will continue collecting signatures through December 2026 as the state representative finalizes the draft legislation.