First Hoary Bat Released In SoCal With Tracking Transmitter

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego Humane Society has successfully released a rehabilitated hoary bat fitted with a Motus tracking device, marking the first time a hoary bat has been equipped with the technology in Southern California. The organization announced the milestone Thursday on World Wildlife Conservation Day.

"This release is an exciting step forward for bat conservation in our region," said Marie Bosch, wildlife medical supervisor at San Diego Humane Society. "Being able to track a species that is both migratory and arboreal will deepen our understanding of their needs and behaviors in Southern California."

The release took place Sunday near Agua Hedionda Lagoon in Carlsbad, with the help of "Stellaluna" author and illustrator Janell Cannon, who has been an "enthusiastic supporter of the effort," according to San Diego Humane Society. Cannon helped coordinate the release site, photographed the bat's release and recorded his echolocation calls with a bat detector as he flew away.

Cannon said she hoped the release and upcoming tracking data will help raise awareness about bat conservation.

The adult male bat was rescued during a storm on Nov. 14 in coastal North County, then brought to the organization's Bahde Wildlife Center for care. After a period of rest, the bat regained full health and was deemed ready for release, according to San Diego Humane Society.

Hoary bats are known for both long-distance migration and winter hibernation. They often travel from northern regions into Southern California's milder climate, according to San Diego Humane Society. Because they are a "solitary species" and roost in tree foliage rather than caves or crevices, their habitats and seasonal movements remain less understood.

With a Motus wildlife tracking tower located nearby, researchers and rehabilitators hope to receive valuable information about where the bat travels next, whether he remains in the area to hibernate or continues migrating along the Pacific Flyway, according to San Diego Humane Society.

San Diego Humane Society's Project Wildlife Program cares for more than 13,000 wild animals each year.

People who encounter an injured, sick or orphaned wild animal can visit the organization's Wildlife Help Hub for assistance.