September is the peak month for Indiana bats to migrate back to their hibernating spot in Hannibal. The mild and comfortable temperatures are perfect for a night hike through Sodalis Nature Preserve, sponsored by Hannibal Parks & Recreation.

The night hike, called “Bats are Back” will be 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.

Gale Rublee, Hannibal Parks & Recreation nature interpreter said some of the bats migrate up to 300 miles away and some are nearby like Mark Twain Lake. “When they come back, they mate and continue to fatten up on insects to get ready to hibernate,” she said.

The full program is about two hours and covers a 2-mile paved loop with a steep incline. Participants have the option to return sooner as desired.

Nature programs and night hikes are free due to the generosity of Hannibal BASF and led with the help of members of the Mississippi Hills Missouri Master Naturalist chapter.

Register online at:www.hannibalparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program