The largest colony of Mexican free- tailed bats in Texas is located at Bracken Cave, in Central Texas. The Bat Conservation International owns the cave.  As stewards of the cave and its colony, BCI is responsible for ensuring that development doesn't encroach on the natural landscape of the cave.

The pups will roost sepreate from the females, and the males roost in small groups in a different locale.  Are the males absent fathers, then?  Strictly speaking, I'd say yes.  They don't take any role in helping raise the newborns or the pups. 

The cave is about 15 miles northwest of San Antonio.  Yes, you can visit, but you'll have to get in touch with BCI before you go for reservations.  Joining BCI makes it easier to book a reservation.  BCI has a great summary of the cave and a great video on their website.  

There they go!

Want to learn about Madison's own bat colony?  Get the book here.