Commending Bat Conservation International for its contributions.

89(R) HR 1422 - Enrolled version - Bill Text

H.R. No. 1422

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, For more than four decades, Bat Conservation

International has played a critical role in protecting bat species

in Texas and across the globe; and

WHEREAS, Since its founding in 1982, Bat Conservation

International has been at the forefront of research and habitat

restoration initiatives that are crucial to the survivability of

bat populations; the organization is headquartered in Austin, the

home of the largest urban bat colony in the world; every year, with

optimal viewing occurring in the summer, over 140,000 people visit

the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge to witness the

breathtaking scene of adult Mexican free-tailed bats and their pups

leaving their roosts at dusk to hunt for insects; and

WHEREAS, Of the more than 1,400 species of bats found

worldwide, it is estimated that 47 live in the U.S. and 33 exist in

the Lone Star State; central to BCI's mission are campaigns that

educate the public about the importance of bats, which help

maintain healthy ecosystems through pollination, seed dispersal,

and the consumption of bugs; bat conservation is essential for

sustainable ecological balance in Texas, where it is estimated that

the animals' pest control services save agriculture producers

hundreds of millions of dollars annually; and

WHEREAS, Of special note, BCI is dedicated to protecting bat

habitats in Texas; in partnering with the Nature Conservancy and

other stakeholders, it has helped secure over 1,400 acres for

Bracken Cave Preserve, the home of the world's largest bat colony,

which encompasses some 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats near San

Antonio; moreover, BCI has worked with Texas private landowners and

with state and federal agencies to implement such practices as

artificial roost design and the protection of maternity roosts and

hibernation sites; further, BCI has teamed with the Texas Parks and

Wildlife Department to combat white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease

threatening bat populations; and

WHEREAS, The continuing well-being of the Lone Star State

depends greatly on the care demonstrated by those who oversee its

natural resources, and through its exemplary efforts, BCI is

inspiring Texans of all ages to appreciate and support the

stewardship of bat populations; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas

Legislature hereby commend Bat Conservation International for its

vital contributions and extend to all those associated with the

organization sincere best wishes for continued success with their

important work; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be

prepared for BCI as an expression of high regard by the Texas House

of Representatives.

Bucy

______________________________

Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 1422 was adopted by the House on June

1, 2025, by a non-record vote.

______________________________

Chief Clerk of the House