an invitation to a bat viewing!

I have really good colleagues - scientists that I've met along the way, that I often only see annually (or less) in some city - where we all gather to meet for some reason or another (but generally to present our research).  Today I received a delightful email from a favorite colleague, one that I haven't spoken with in almost a year, since we were both in Vienna for a meeting. 

He's one of those individuals who is both very successful and remarkably kind.  If I had any sense at all, any, I'd find a good vintage beverage, catch a flight and spend an interesting evening with he and his spouse, their family and his friends and colleagues...viewing bats. 

Hello All: As many of you may know, I am planning on hosting a bat viewing trip on Thursday, August 9.  You will see by the attached directions (from the OKC area - adapt as necessary) that the bat viewing area is a private ranch in northwest Oklahoma.  I did receive permission from the very gracious caretakers of the property for this expedition. We should gather (at least) between 6:30 - 7:00 pm at the Whitlaw Ranch main gate.  We will proceed from there and wait for the show to start.  Please ignore the caving instructions on the attachments since we will NOT be caving on this trip.  Follow the instructions about litter, potties, and snakes etc, but for the record,  I have never even seen a snake on the ranch.  It will be necessary for all visitors to sign a liability waiver (also attached).  It specifically refers to caving, but completion of this form is required.  You will not be allowed on the premises without it.  Bring some knock around garb, a lawn chair, cameras/video stuff, a vintage beverage or something to drink, and perhaps some snacks.  FYI, you are more than welcome to bring whomever you wish - kids, spouses, colleagues, students, etc., so share this message if you would like. However, respect for the property should be emphasized and I do need to get a head count. So let me know in advance if you are coming and how many are in your party.  I have been going there for years and the bat spectacle has never failed to impress. For a small glimpse of what it might be like, take a look at the attached photo.  I'm looking forward to the trip.  J--

PS: If you can't make it, I certainly understand.  Rest assured that you will be missed and we will probably go again next year.

The e-vite came complete with a map on how to get to the ranch as well as the liability waiver.

I love bats.  Isn't the photo he sent us a fun one?

Maybe next year, the Airstream and I should head on down to Oklahoma -- don't you think?  It would perfect.  I should plan on that.

Comments

[Ellis Hollow]

We used to travel -- well walk across the road -- for a similar experience very often at dusk. There's an old country church across the road with a belfry that was loaded with bats. When the started coming out, it was like there were people up there pouring them through the vents from 5-gallon buckets.

Over the past year, the church has been remodeled into a residence. I don't know how they kept the bats out, but I guess they did. So no more show.

I was worried that the mosquito population would soar. (We're right next to a big wetland.) But so far, no noticeable rise.

[layanee]

A Bat Party? That's original and what fun! Next year I hope you make it there!

[Pam/Digging]

A private bat-watching party sounds like a lot of fun. Of course, if you happened to visit Austin between March and October, you could just stop by the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch the largest urban bat colony in the U.S. erupt from under the bridge at sunset. It's quite a sight. http://austin.about.com/cs/bats/p/bats.htm

[The County Clerk]

Yes... Pam/Digging echos my own thoughts.

The Congress Avenue Bridge - Austin. WOW.

And of course, it wouldn't be Texas if one didn't watch THOSE bats while sipping margaritas.

You... the OK bat trip is EXACTLY the kind of thing where I could spend a tremendous amount of money. What I mean is, if I didn't have to work, I'd spend ALL of my time be-bopping around to things like that.

[Kim]

I would love a bat-viewing trip! I would love it even more if bats would decide to live in the hospitable, clean, well-designed bathouse we put up this year on the side of our house. (I think we put it up too late, though, darn it.)

Very cool that you have such friends, Pam. :)

[Pam]

EH: I wonder where the bats all went - I often wonder that when there's one such obvious home for them that changes someone (for the worse in their minds I'm sure). I've never seen bats like that - pouring out from buckets! Wow.

Layanee: Ends up that I might be able to go for a second gathering in September (depending on how my mother is doing). My friend is inviting me down for a seminar that conveniently coincides with the second party. Fun!

Pam/Digging: Boy, I'd love to come to Austin and see that bat show - WOW!

CC: Hmmm...yes, margaritas for bat-viewing in Texas, but in Oklahoma? I'm just not sure.

Kim: I've had a neglected bat house up for awhile too. I see them at night, they're definitely around - they're just ignoring the house. And yes - I'm grateful for such friends.