Secret Lives of Bats, The

Free-tailed bats emerge from Carlsbad Caverns at dusk.

Tuttle is a talented storyteller, a shrewd conservationist and a gifted photographer, but he’s also a brilliant scientist. His detailed description of his work with frog-eating bats in the rainforests of Panama is a particularly fascinating highlight.  His ability to sort out the complex ecological web that these creatures inhabit while sloshing through treacherous mosquito and jaguar-filled jungles in the dark is nothing short of astounding.

A thoroughly entertaining memoir of an adventure-filled life spent with the planet’s most persecuted mammals, The Secret Lives of Bats is packed with enthusiasm and remarkable science.  In each chapter, Tuttle makes it clear why he finds bats so fascinating and reveals what’s driven him to become their most vocal ambassador.  Highly recommended by anyone who’s interested in bats or who enjoys science writing featuring plenty of peril.

While bats are undeniably fascinating creatures—pollinators, pest controllers, and marvels of evolutionary design—they can become an unexpected challenge when they decide your attic is the perfect roost. In The Secret Lives of Bats, Tuttle paints a vivid picture of their intelligence and ecological value, and it’s hard not to be won over by their quirky habits. But even the most passionate wildlife enthusiast would agree: when bats take up residence inside your home, it can quickly turn from enchanting to problematic.

That’s where a thoughtful approach to coexistence comes in. Understanding the importance of bats in our ecosystem doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice the sanctity of our living spaces. When colonies find their way into chimneys, rafters, or eaves, the best course of action is respectful and humane Wildlife Removal. Professionals trained in ethical relocation can ensure the bats are safely ushered out—without harm—and future entries are prevented. This strikes a balance between preserving wildlife and protecting the comfort of our homes.

Living near nature means embracing its wonders, but also managing its boundaries. Whether it’s a solitary bat that wandered in or a growing colony seeking shelter, it’s possible to resolve these close encounters without panic or poison. After all, as Tuttle reminds us, bats are not the villains of old folklore—they’re vital members of our planet’s cast. With the right tools and understanding, we can admire their secret lives from a respectful distance—preferably not from the attic rafters.

— D. Driftless