The Gardens of the National Palace of Queluz will once again host the program “At Night in the Garden,” an initiative that invites participants to discover the bats that inhabit this green space and to understand the role they play in ecosystems. The sessions will take place on August 21 and 29, as part of the celebrations of the International Bat Night, according to a press release.
According to the same source, known for their geometric layouts, statuary, and water features, the gardens are also a refuge of biodiversity in an urban area, hosting several species that only become visible at nightfall. It is during this period that bats begin their activity, venturing out in search of food and shelter.
Led by biologist Mário Carmo, the initiative starts at 7:30 p.m. with a session devoted to the bat species existing in Portugal, their biology, the beliefs that continue to surround these animals, and their importance for the balance of ecosystems.
The program continues with a walk through the gardens at dusk, allowing observers to watch these flying mammals in their habitat. Participants will also be able to use an ultrasonic detector to listen to the sounds used by bats to navigate and hunt.
The activity is part of the International Bat Night celebrations (“International Bat Night”), observed annually in several countries with the aim of informing the public about these animals, dispelling myths associated with the species, and raising awareness for their conservation. In 2026, the international initiative will be celebrated on August 29 and 30.
Participation in the activity, lasting about two hours, requires prior registration. Tickets are available on the Parques de Sintra website, with prices ranging from 13.5 euros for youths aged 6 to 17 and 15 euros for adults.
