QUANAH, TX. - Monte Lumpkin of Bat Conservation International, will offer his popular program on Bats at Copper Breaks State Park on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.  Lumpkin will begin his presentation in the park headquarters/museum and then at dark will lead participants to Comanche campground to attempt to spot
bats who reside in the area and in the park.

Lumpkin, a life long resident of Quanah, has worked to promote understanding of this poorly known and even feared creature.  He has also helped the park develop a conservation plan for the bats and has worked with the city of Quanah in dealing with their bat related issues.

"The state of Texas has recognized the fact that bats are an important part of our environment and economy," says Lumpkin, citing laws which require bridges to be built with spaces for bat roosts built in.

"Bats eat 2-4 times their own weight in harmful insects every night," he explains, "and they also pollinate many of our food and commercial crops."

The Saturday Campsite Talk is part of an ongoing series of programs for park visitors and area residents. 

Admission to the bats program is free with regular park admission of $2 for adults. Children 12 and under are admitted free and there are discounts for senior citizens aged 65 and up.       

For more information on the Bat program, or other Copper Breaks events or facilities, contact the park daily during regular business hours at 940-839-4331.  Copper Breaks State Park is located 13 miles south of Quanah and eight miles north of Crowell on State Highway 6.