Bat Conservation International, Inc.

Protect the Critically Endangered Florida Bonneted Bat 
through Art, Education, and Conservation

The Florida bonneted bat is one of the rarest bats in the United States, found only in South Florida. These unique creatures are under immediate threat from habitat destruction and development, particularly in their critically endangered home, the Pine Rocklands. Bat Conservation International is fighting to protect this species from extinction through habitat conservation, research, and education. This year, we are proud to partner with the Cortada Foundation to bring Endangered World, an eco-art project led by renowned artist Xavier Cortada, to Miami-Dade Public Schools. For over a decade, Endangered World has addressed global biodiversity loss through participatory art installations at the South Pole, North Pole, and other iconic locations. These public art interventions aim to show that all species are interconnected and must be protected.   Now, it’s coming home to South Florida with a powerful mission: to connect Miami’s students and families with the vital Pine Rocklands ecosystem (found only in South Florida) and the flora and fauna who's very existence depend on it, including the Florida bonneted bat.  Your support on Give Miami Day will fund: An interactive mural project led by Xavier Cortada, showcasing the Florida bonneted bat and its habitat. In-school programming, including a visit from the artist, to inspire students to take action for conservation and understand the importance of biodiversity. Community awareness, fostering a deeper appreciation of the Pine Rocklands and the need to protect this rare ecosystem for future generations. Every dollar you give will help us bring this transformative art and conservation project to life, inspiring Miami’s next generation of environmental stewards. Together, we can ensure the Florida bonneted bat and its Pine Rocklands habitat remain a part of South Florida’s future. Join us on Give Miami Day to make a difference! Your donation directly supports this innovative program, empowering children and families to protect our endangered bats and their unique habitat. Let’s safeguard this species—today and forever.

Photo by Dustin Smith

Photos in gallery by Melquisedec Gamba-Rios and Dustin Smith