In 2023 the California legislature voted to make the Pallid bat (antrozous pallidus), the only flying mammal, a symbol of California. Bat biologist Dr. Dave Johnston has studied the Pallid bat for over 40 years and was the first to make the suggestion that this unusually golden-furred bat be the one to represent the Golden State. Then with the help of ninth grader and bat enthusiast, Naomi d’Alessio and wildlife advocates, they made a convincing argument noting the Pallid bats critical, beneficial role in California agriculture helping farmers manage insects without pesticides. In Modoc County alone, bats saved farmers $50 million by eating grasshoppers and significantly reducing the cost of pesticides. 

In November 2023, the charismatic Pallid bat was selected to join the other great state symbols: the California Grizzly bear, the California valley quail, and the California golden poppy.

In this episode of Critter Chat, hosts Marney Blair and Susan Brandt interview Dr. Johnston and Ms. d’Alessio as well as meet an actual Pallid bat that is in the care NorCal Bat rescue expert Corky Quirk. Why was this particular bat selected as the state bat? Why is it important to elevate the awareness of the health of bats in California? We discuss these questions with the experts bringing listeners a new found fondness for this little blonde beauty. 

School teachers are encouraged to use Critter Chat for their students. Blair and Brandt are developing teaching notes that include vocabulary words such as “echolocation” and “roosts” to bring concepts to students. 

Critter Chat airs on KVMR the first Wednesday of every month at 6:30-7:00pm. The Pallid bat episode will premiere on Wednesday, October 2 at 6:30pm. See critterchat.org for show notes and more links to Pallid bat resources.