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Montezuma Well Trail Closed To Protect Maternity Habitat For Townsend's Big-Eared Bat

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Published Date

May 2, 2022

A trail at Montezuma Well will be closed through July so as not to disturb Townsend's big-eared bats that are pupping/Patrick Cone

So as not to disturb Townsend's big-eared bats that breed at Montezuma Well, a unit of Montezuma Castle National Monument, the trail to the Swallet Caves at the well will be closed through July.

The overlook and loop trails at the well site in central Arizona will remain open. The cave is a critical maternity habitat for the Townsend’s big-eared bat during these months. While nursing their pups, noise, movement, or any other disturbance could cause the bats to abandon their roost, according to the park.

"We are fortunate to manage land that has habitat for these bats to birth and rear their pups," said Sara Eno, who manage's the park/s natural resource program. "These small mammals are generally in decline in many areas. They are highly sensitive to human disturbance. They positively contribute to the ecosystem, and we want to support their success and survival by continuing to provide excellent habitat.”

Additionally, the Outlet Trail remains partially closed at the well due to structural damage that impacts the safety of visitors. Be sure to read all signage when visiting the park. Montezuma Well is a detached unit of Montezuma Castle National Monument and is located at 5525 W. Beaver Creek Rd., Rimrock, AZ 86335.

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