TxDOT to move bats during I-35 construction in north Austin
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to reflect the bats will be moving from the Wells Branch and Howard Lane bridges to the Walnut Creek Bridge.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Bats living under two bridges in north Austin are being re-homed because of construction on Interstate 35, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
The bats live under the I-35 bridges at Wells Branch Parkway and Howard Lane. Those are being demolished as part of the I-35 Capital Express North project, which will add lanes in each direction from State Highway 45 to U.S. Highway 290 as well as other improvements.
TxDOT said the bridges will be torn down in stages, with half still available for the bats to roost. A biologist will help move some of the Brazilian free-tailed bats to the Walnut Creek Bridge, which is between Tech Ridge Boulevard and Braker Lane.
The new place is a more desirable spot with natural elements that are similar to their habitat in Central and South America where they migrate in winter, TxDOT said.
“Throughout the years, TxDOT has worked to preserve the homes of colonies that visit Austin every year,” TxDOT wrote in a social media post.
According to the department, the new bat home should last between 10 and 20 years.
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