Come out of hibernation for Batfest

HUNTINGDON -  Develop a deeper appreciation for Pennsylvania's most fascinating mammals at Lincoln Caverns' 10th annual Batfest, happening this year from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13.

Lincoln Caverns is at 7703 William Penn Highway, Huntingdon.

A popular event for bat enthusiasts of all ages, Batfest features a full day of activities, cavern tours and a pizza lunch. The group will have the opportunity to participate in the building of bat houses, to be awarded to winning attendees through a random drawing at the end of the day.

This year's Batfest features a visit from Robyn Graboski of Centre Wildlife Care. A popular guest at Lincoln Caverns and other regional events, Graboski rehabilitates a wide variety of Pennsylvania animals, including bats. Betsy, one of Centre Wildlife Care's big brown bats, will also attend Batfest.

The program will include information about Pennsylvania's bats, as well as an update on White Nose Syndrome, the devastating disease that has already caused the death of over six million bats in the Eastern United States.  Lincoln Caverns has participated in education efforts, as well as raising funds for WNS research during the past eight seasons.

The highlight of Batfest is a visit to the caverns, Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks. Interpretive tours of the two spectacular crystal caverns feature history, geology, bat facts and trivia, while offering time for questions and picture taking.

The caverns are a comfortable 50 degrees year round, making them a pleasant place to spend a winter afternoon.  Lincoln Caverns' gift shop features a wide variety of logo items and bat gifts. Discounts are included with Batfest tickets.  A portion of each purchase during Batfest will be donated to WNS research.

Advance tickets are required for Batfest and space is limited. The blizzard date for Batfest is Sunday, Feb. 14. Tickets may be purchased at www.lincolncaverns.com or by calling 814-643-0268.