Can we afford to lose bats? A recent study by Eyal Frank of the University of Chicago reveals that the dramatic decline in U.S. bat populations due to white-nose syndrome (WNS) has led to significant economic and health consequences. Key Findings: Increased Pesticide Use: With bats serving as natural pest controllers, their decline forced farmers […]
Bats are among the most fascinating yet misunderstood creatures in the natural world, and for many conservationists, a single experience can ignite a lifelong passion for their study and protection. In the two inspiring blog posts below, interns Wongani Sibande and Alison Simpanzye share their transformative journeys at Kasanka National Park in Zambia, where they […]
TEDx Talks recently released the video of Merlin Tuttle’s fascinating presentation about bats at TEDxUTAustin’s seventh annual conference, held on March 23rd. During his presentation, Merlin shared his knowledge about these mysterious but invaluable animals. With over 60 years of experience studying and preserving bats, he also talked about his part in saving the iconic […]
Thanks to all the Join the Nightlife: Bats and Agriculture attendees who joined us out in the field this year! Guests got hands-on experience with Texas bats, mist netting, bat acoustics, bat houses, and joined MTBC (and Merlin) for an exclusive tour of Bracken Cave to watch the largest bat colony in the world take […]
Supporter and friend of MTBC, Australian conservation and animal welfare photojournalist Doug Gimesy, had his images recognized in two categories at the recent Siena International Photo Awards. Through his photographs, Gimesy helps shine a light on Australia’s often misunderstood, under-appreciated, but magnificent grey-headed flying foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus). His photo-story of nine images titled “Fighting the […]
It’s summertime (in the Northern Hemisphere) and the evening skies are alive with activity. As the sun sets, bugs are flying around and bats are in pursuit. As the weather warms, evening emergences are getting larger and larger. It’s hard not to have bats on the brain! Since many people are thinking of our winged […]
When most people think of pollinators, fluffy bees and beautiful butterflies fluttering around in the afternoon sun, often come to mind. However, one of the most overlooked pollinators has whole industries relying on them to pollinate their crops during the night shift – bats. No Bats = No Tequila: Mexico’s entire tequila industry relies on […]
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Madelline Mathis has a degree in environmental studies from Rollins College and a passion for wildlife conservation. She is an outstanding nature photographer who has worked extensively with Merlin and other MTBC staff studying and photographing bats in Mozambique, Cuba, Costa Rica, and Texas. Following college graduation, she was employed as an environmental specialist for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. She subsequently founded the Florida chapter of the International DarkSky Association and currently serves on the board of DarkSky Texas. She also serves on the board of Houston Wilderness and was appointed to the Austin Water Resource Community Planning Task Force.
Michael Lazari Karapetian has over twenty years of investment management experience. He has a degree in business management, is a certified NBA agent, and gained early experience as a money manager for the Bank of America where he established model portfolios for high-net-worth clients. In 2003 he founded Lazari Capital Management, Inc. and Lazari Asset Management, Inc. He is President and CIO of both and manages over a half a billion in assets. In his personal time he champions philanthropic causes. He serves on the board of Moravian College and has a strong affinity for wildlife, both funding and volunteering on behalf of endangered species.
