Desert Bats Ecology & Science Field Experience

This evening wildlife experience introduces participants to the hidden world of desert bats. Using acoustic detection equipment, guests listen to and identify bat species as they emerge at dusk. The instructor will explain echolocation behavior, migration patterns, and the ecological importance of bats in desert environments. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how these often-misunderstood animals navigate and thrive in nighttime conditions. The experience blends science observation and storytelling in a classroom and then in a relaxed outdoor setting where guests can witness bats in their natural habitat.

• This class takes place at the Rattlesnake Room at Park Headquarters; class will caravan to Luckie Park in 29 Palms.

• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required. Youth under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not needed for this program.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation; carpooling with other participants is encouraged.

This class is leisurely. It requires less than 2 miles of walking, limited shade, uneven terrain, and little elevation gain. Hiking and walking are not required and can be modified to accommodate participants. 

Required Items:

• Water (1 - 2 liters per person)

• Appropriate attire: Layers are recommended for low nighttime temperatures

• Food and snacks

• Closed-toe athletic shoes

• Headlamp or flashlight (red light preferred)

Discount Policy: Only one discount may be applied per registration. Discounts cannot be combined. Eligible discounts include Friends & Family, Teacher, Veteran, Active Duty Military (and spouses), Park Lover Member, and Student discounts. The highest applicable single discount will be applied at checkout. 

Meet Your Instructor: Luma Fowler is a Bat Biologist with 16 years of experience in biological research, environmental assessment, wildlife studies, construction monitoring, and inter-agency coordination. Ms. Fowler is a highly knowledgeable bat biologist, having researched and surveyed bat colonies throughout California for over 8 years. She oversees Endemic Environmentals bat program and leads bat-related projects statewide, including habitat assessments, acoustic monitoring, emergence surveys, mist-netting, exclusion planning, and long-term monitoring programs. Luma conducts bat assessments, emergence surveys, and bat evictions for a variety of infrastructure, transportation, restoration, and development projects, while coordinating compliance with state and federal wildlife protection requirements. She is also a member of the Bat Working Group in Orange County. In addition to her field and program management responsibilities, Luma teaches Restoration Ecology at Chapman University and instructs the Bat Ecology and Sampling section within the UC Irvine Master’s in Conservation and Restoration Sciences Graduate Program.

Photo Credit: Luma Fowler