Austin, September 15, 2025
News Summary
The Austin Bat Refuge has successfully rehabilitated Hubble, a rare big free-tailed bat, after he was found at the University of Texas. Scheduled for release on July 25 during a Star Party event at the McDonald Observatory, this marks a significant milestone as Hubble is the first documented bat of his species in Travis County. The refuge emphasizes the importance of bats in the ecosystem and advocates for legislative protections as they care for over 100 bats in their facility.
Austin, Texas – The Austin Bat Refuge has successfully rehabilitated a rare big free-tailed bat named Hubble, preparing him for release back into his natural habitat in West Texas. Hubble was discovered in an unusual location, the physics, math, and astronomy building at the University of Texas, having inadvertently traveled from his home region. His release is set to take place on July 25 during an evening Star Party event at the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas.
The Austin Bat Refuge, founded by Dianne Odegard and her husband, serves as a sanctuary for injured bats while educating the public about their vital role in the ecosystem. Many of the bats that arrive at the facility exhibit a range of injuries, including broken bones and head trauma. The refuge’s primary goal is to rehabilitate these animals so they can return to the wild where they contribute to agriculture by managing populations of mosquitoes and crop pests.
Hubble’s journey from Austin to Fort Davis marks an important milestone, as he is the first documented big free-tailed bat in Travis County, according to the refuge. The staff at the University of Texas contacted Odegard and co-founder Lee Mackenzie upon finding Hubble, who had injuries including excessively worn thumb claws. Following a period of rehabilitation, he received clearance for travel from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
The forthcoming release event at the McDonald Observatory will feature constellation tours and telescope viewings. Bat experts will be available to answer questions, further promoting community understanding of Hubble and his species. Although tickets for the Star Party are sold out, the event aims to foster awareness about the significance of bats in local ecosystems.
Currently, the Austin Bat Refuge is caring for over 100 bats, illustrating the increasing demand for bat rehabilitation services. The facility emphasizes the importance of humane and non-lethal methods for bat removal and has been actively advocating for legislative protections for bats. In this context, an impending Texas Senate bill, SB 1285, proposes new regulations aimed at reducing bat removals during the baby season from May to August. This is intended to protect young bats still learning to fly and interfacing with their environments.
Furthermore, the Texas Department of Transportation has initiated the use of bat boxes, enhancing local habitats for bats negatively impacted by bridge demolitions. Co-founders Odegard and Mackenzie highlight that effective education about bats is crucial to dispelling fears and misunderstandings surrounding these important animals.
The efforts of the Austin Bat Refuge not only support the health and safety of bat populations but also serve to unify community members and encourage a more harmonious relationship with wildlife. As Hubble prepares for his release, the spotlight on bats shines brightly, prompting conversations about the protection and preservation of these essential creatures.
FAQs
What is the Austin Bat Refuge?
The Austin Bat Refuge is a facility dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured bats and public education about their ecological importance.
Who is Hubble?
Hubble is a rare big free-tailed bat rehabilitated by the Austin Bat Refuge after being discovered in the University of Texas astronomy building.
When will Hubble be released?
Hubble is scheduled for release on July 25 during a Star Party event at the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas.
What injuries did Hubble have?
Hubble had excessively worn thumb claws and required rehabilitation before being cleared for travel.
What role do bats play in the ecosystem?
Bats are crucial in controlling mosquito and crop pest populations, thereby supporting agricultural health.
What is Senate Bill 1285?
This bill aims to provide new protections for bats in Texas, particularly during the baby season, and restrict certain types of removals from human structures.
Key Features of the Austin Bat Refuge and Hubble’s Rehabilitation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Austin Bat Refuge | A facility for bat rehabilitation and public education about bats’ ecological roles. |
| Hubble | A rare big free-tailed bat rehabilitated for release in West Texas. |
| Release Date | July 25 at McDonald Observatory’s Star Party event. |
| Current Bat Residents | Over 100 bats undergoing rehabilitation. |
| Legislation | Senate Bill 1285 aims to protect bats during baby season. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Austin Chronicle
- Wikipedia: Bats in Texas
- Fox 7 Austin
- Google Search: Texas Bat Protection Bill
- CultureMap Austin
- Google Scholar: Bat Refuge Austin
- Big Bend Sentinel
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bat Mammal
- Spectrum Local News
- Google News: Hubble Bat Homecoming
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
