As long as the hibernating colony of bats shows no signs of disturbance, we plan to keep over half of the Bear Gulch Cave open for almost ten months each year, from mid-July through mid-May. During especially warm springs, however, it's possible that the entire cave will be closed before mid-May if the maternity colony is present.
The entire cave will continue to be closed through late spring and early summer for pupping season, from mid-May through Mid-July. The entire Bear Gulch Cave will also be open twice a year for at least one week and up to four weeks each March and October, depending on the presence of the colony of bats.
Schedule of the Seasonal Opening of the Bear Gulch Cave
These dates may change if the colony of bats changes its breeding patterns or shows signs of disturbance.
March | The lower half of the cave may be open for the full month. The entire cave is open for at least a week, usually the last week of the month. The entire cave may also open earlier, depending on the presence of the colony of bats. |
April 1 - mid-May | The lower half of the cave may be open. |
Mid-May - mid-July | The entire cave will be closed to protect the colony of bats as they raise their young. |
Mid-July - September 31 | The lower half of the cave may be open. |
October | The entire cave is open for at least a week, usually the last week of the month. The entire cave may also open earlier, depending on the presence of the colony of bats. |
Nov. 1 - end of Feb. | The lower half of the cave may be open. |