Missouri Department of Conservation researchers study bats during fall mating season

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri Department of Conservation is conducting research on several bat species during their fall mating season to help monitor populations and support conservation efforts.

According to the department, researchers recently captured bats to collect physical data and attach identification bands that will help track future encounters.

The research takes place during a seasonal period known as the “fall swarm,” when bats gather near caves to find mates and locate places to hibernate during the winter.

Researchers captured three species during the study: gray bats, little brown bats and Indiana bats.

All three species are classified as species of conservation concern because of concerns about their ability to maintain populations over time in certain areas.

The department said collecting data and tracking the bats will provide valuable information to help researchers better understand and protect the species.