Austin's most spectacular natural wonder. The largest urban bat colony in North America — and Austin Bat Refuge has been your trusted guide here for over a decade.
1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats · Every evening March–October · Free to watch
The colony is active and emergence conditions look favorable for tonight. Expect emergence approximately 20 minutes after sunset. Bring a blanket and arrive early to claim a good spot along the railing. Weather is clear with light winds — ideal bat-watching conditions.
Beneath the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge lives a colony of approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) — the largest urban bat colony in North America and one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles in the world.
Each evening from March through October, the bats pour out from the bridge's expansion joints in a swirling, undulating stream that can last up to 45 minutes. Mothers and pups reunite in mid-air. The sky darkens with wings. It is, simply, unforgettable.
Austin Bat Refuge is the only organization with up-close experience at this site. We've staffed the public education table at the bridge every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday — rain or shine — for years.
Emergence begins near sunset. Arrive 30–45 minutes early.
| Month | Approx. Emergence | Colony Size |
|---|---|---|
| March – April | 7:30 – 8:00 PM | Arriving / Growing |
| May – June | 8:15 – 8:45 PM | ~1 million |
| July – August | 8:00 – 8:30 PM | ~1.5 million |
| September | 7:30 – 8:00 PM | ~1.5 million |
| October | 7:00 – 7:30 PM | Departing |
The best viewing spots along the bridge fill up fast, especially on weekends in summer. Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset. The south side of the bridge has the best views as bats emerge heading east.
Stand on the Congress Avenue Bridge itself (both sides), or watch from the Bat Viewing Area below on the south bank of Lady Bird Lake. Look for our education table — we'll be there Friday through Sunday.
Light jacket (evenings cool quickly), insect repellent, binoculars for a closer look, and a camera with good low-light capability. Folding chairs are welcome in the viewing area below.
The South Congress neighborhood is steps away. Grab dinner before the emergence at one of Austin's iconic restaurants — the bridge is walkable from dozens of cafés and restaurants on SoCo.
Bats don't emerge in cold or heavy rain — they conserve energy. If temperatures drop below 55°F or there's a storm, the emergence may be reduced or cancelled. Check back here for current conditions.
Austin Bat Refuge volunteers staff an education table at the viewing area every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We bring preserved specimens, answer questions, and share the wonder of bats up close.
Congress Avenue Bridge spans Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. The main entrance is at the south end of Congress Avenue. Parking is available in garages along Congress Avenue and nearby streets.
Congress Avenue Bridge
Austin, TX 78701
Our education table at Congress Avenue Bridge is staffed entirely through donations. Help us keep the wonder alive.
Donate to Austin Bat Refuge →