For the Love of Bats

Unlock the secret lives of Western bats through stunning stories, fascinating facts, and experiential natural history

• Blends scientific facts with immersive storytelling to inspire stewardship
• Offers practical conservation guidance, including how to create a backyard habitat
• A percentage of proceeds from sales of this book support bat conservation

Bat advocate Niki Desautels celebrates the astonishing diversity of bats, revealing their unique behaviors, habitats, and physiology while making a compelling case for stewardship and conservation. In For the Love of Bats she shares a vivid, place-based exploration of the West’s only flying mammals, blending natural history with in-the-field experiences.

Each chapter delves into fascinating details--from echolocation and hibernation to feeding habits and migration--while connecting these traits to broader ecological patterns. Also included are an additional brief guide to all 32 species commonly found west of the Rockies, resources for learning more, tips for observing bats, guidance on creating backyard habitats with bat houses, and recommendations for top destinations on public lands to witness bat activity.

Despite their importance, nearly 200 bat species are endangered globally. With compelling narratives, fascinating science, and actionable conservation advice, For the Love of Bats invites readers to embrace the wonder of these extraordinary mammals--reminding us that bats are not just survivors of the night, but vital architects of healthier, more resilient ecosystems.

A percentage of proceeds from sales of this book support bat conservation.