"I Like Big BATS and I Cannot Lie!"

This month's Science Under the Stars event is "I Like Big BATS and I Cannot Lie!," presented by Brandi Christiano.

Have you ever seen a bat flying around? Probably (especially in Austin)! With more than 1,400 species worldwide, bats live in almost every environment. As the only flying mammal, they can be found in caves, trees, and under bridges. Some live in groups with millions of individuals while others live by themselves. This diverse group of animals play an important role in the ecosystem and without bats, we wouldn't have tequila. Come learn more about what bats eat, how they communicate, and what you can do to help them!

Brandi Christiano is a PhD student in the lab of Dr. Mike Ryan. Her research focuses on the foraging patterns and decisions of insectivorous and frugivorous bats. She is interested in how female’s nutritional decisions change as they gestate and nurse their offspring.

Science Under the Stars is a free public outreach lecture series in Austin, Texas. Events are held outdoors at Brackenridge Field Laboratory, 2907 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, Texas 78703. The schedule is below but also check out the SUTS webpage by clicking here.

• 7:00 pm: Kid’s activities and natural history displays of local animals and plants found at Brackenridge Field Laboratory 
• 7:15 pm-7:45 pm: Guided tour of the field lab (wear sturdy shoes and bring water)!
• 8:00 pm: Settle in, because the talk begins now!
• 8:45 pm: Q&A with the speaker

Brandi Christiano