HHS at Indiana State University's Bat Fest

By Holly Carter

Holly and Roger Carter at the HHS booth at Bat Fest

Indiana State University has hosted the annual Bat Festival for many years, educating people about native and global bats. Despite centuries of superstition and negative reputations—ranging from witchcraft to health concerns—bats play crucial roles in pollination, insect control, and (in my opinion) are quite adorable.

Ethan Estabrook showing off an eastern milk snake at Bat Fest.

This year, the university expanded the festival by inviting other conservation groups to share their projects. The Hoosier Herpetological Society was honored to participate, showcasing animals and delivering three PowerPoint presentations.

HHS President Jim Horton showing a blood python at Bat Fest.

Ethan Estabrook, Roger and Holly Carter, and Jim Horton covered herpetology, fieldwork, and species conservation. The festival concluded at a nearby park with live bat demonstrations, and Jim and Ethan later gave a reptile presentation at Dobb’s Park. Thanks to Indiana State University for including us in this event!

HHS President Jim Horton being interviewed with his Solomon island skink at Bat Fest.