By using Infrared Thermal Imaging, the IVC was able to detect the presence of Brazilian free-tailed bats in caves and open areas. The thermal cameras detected the bats' body heat and were able to view the path of the bats in a nocturnal setting. Bats were tracked in a number caves in Texas, including the Davis Blowout Cave, Ney Cave, Eckert James River Cave and Frio Cave.

With this information, we can track the path of bats, take a census and also determine the status of their population and habitat.



View Infrared Images Taken from the Davis Blowout Cave in Texas in July 2004





These Infrared Images Were Taken from the Ney in Texas in June 2001





The Following Infrared Images Were Taken at the Eckert James River Cave in Texas in June 2000


The tower behind the bats provides a uniform background. This allows us to identify and track the bats using the infrared cameras. The tower does not interfere with the flight path of the bats.



The Following Infrared Images Were Taken at the Frio Cave in Texas in June 2000

Learn How We Find the 3-Dimensional Distance Between Bats

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