Sonoran Speaker Series Presents: Arizona’s Bats

Community EventGeneral News ArticleCommunityEducationPress Release

FOR RELEASE December 1st, 2025

Sonoran Speaker Series Presents: Arizona’s Bats

PHOENIX, AZ – The Sonoran Speaker Series, a collaborative initiative between Valley of the Sun J and Desert Foothills Land Trust, will host "Incredible Bats," an educational lecture exploring the crucial role these remarkable creatures play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The event will take place on January 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Valley of the Sun J.
 
Hally Cokenias, co-founder of Arizona Bat Rescue, will lead the presentation, drawing from years of hands-on experience rehabilitating and studying Arizona's diverse bat populations. The lecture will illuminate the often overlooked benefits these nocturnal mammals provide, from controlling insect populations to pollinating desert plants.
 
"Bats are among our most important yet misunderstood wildlife neighbors," said Cokenias. "They're incredibly beneficial species that serve as natural pest control and pollinators, playing essential roles in our desert ecosystem."
 
The presentation aims to reach audiences across the spectrum of bat appreciation. Long-time bat enthusiasts will discover new insights into local species and conservation efforts, while those who may harbor fears about bats will learn factual information that can help transform apprehension into appreciation. Everyone will leave with a deeper understanding of why these amazing animals deserve our respect and protection.
 
This event is part of the Sonoran Speaker Series, an ongoing free lecture series designed to connect community members with the natural and cultural heritage of their Sonoran Desert home. The series brings together experts from across the Southwest to share knowledge about desert ecology, conservation, and the natural world.
 

  • What: Sonoran Speaker Series: Incredible Bats
  • When: January 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM
  • Where: Valley of the Sun J, 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
  • Cost: Free and open to the public. Due to limited seating, registration is required.
 
For more information about the Sonoran Speaker Series and upcoming events, visit dflt.org/speakerseries.
 
Since 1945, Valley of the Sun J is the place where children are enriched, friendships built, bodies strengthened, minds challenged, and Jewish culture celebrated. The Valley of the Sun J is where all are welcome. Where the community comes together to workout, to play, to grow, to engage. The Valley of the Sun J is where we are All. Together. Better. To learn more visit valleyofthesunj.org.
 
Desert Foothills Land Trust connects people to nature by working with communities and partners to conserve and steward sensitive lands and species for the survival of our Sonoran Desert. Operating in communities across the north Valley, this nonprofit has conserved nearly 1,100 acres across 29 preserves, many open for public exploration. Re-accredited in 2022 by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, the organization continues its vital work protecting the region's unique desert landscapes, balancing conservation with community needs in rapidly developing areas.
 
Media Contact:
Rachel Stringham, Director of Community Engagement, Desert Foothills Land Trust
480-488-6131 x201, rstringham@dflt.org

Sonoran Speaker Series Presents: Arizona’s Bats