ABOUT US

We are a group of passionate bat advocates.

Who We Are

We are a small, 100% volunteer-run nonprofit permitted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. As a relatively young grassroots organization, we rely entirely on the financial contributions of team members and individual donors to remain operational. We are biologists, licensed rehabilitators, educators, students, and corporate professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, united by a deep appreciation for Southern California’s native animal species. Every rescue, every transport, and every recovery is made possible by the time and personal resources our volunteers commit.

Our Mission

Los Angeles Bat Rescue (LABR) is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured, orphaned, and ill bats in Southern California. Through compassionate care, public education, and collaboration with conservation partners, we strive to protect and advocate for bats as vital members of our ecosystem.

What We Do

In 2025, LABR transported and cared for 104 injured, ill, or orphaned bats from six different counties, representing 15 species—and we expect that number to rise in 2026.

As climate change, habitat loss, and emerging diseases like White-Nose Syndrome and Wing Wasting Disease continue to threaten microbat populations, more compromised bats are being found by the public each year. During peak summer months, we receive up to 10 calls a day about distressed bats. Responding to these cases requires the help of trained volunteers—sometimes exclusively those who are Rabies-vaccinated—who often drive long distances at their own expense to rescue or release a single animal. Each bat requires hours of daily, specialized care, and we work closely with veterinarians to provide the highest quality medical support. LABR fills a critical gap in Southern California’s wildlife response network, offering both expert care and a compassionate safety net.

Through our educational outreach programs we highlight the unique role of bats in Southern California’s ecosystems, fostering appreciation for these critical yet often misunderstood creatures. Through interactive presentations, hands-on activities, and community engagement, we educate diverse audiences about the essential services bats provide, such as controlling insect populations, pollinating native plants, and dispersing seeds in local habitats.

Past events we've taken part in include: Boo At The LA Zoo, the Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival, Longfellow Elementary’s Earth Day fair in Long Beach, the San Dimas Canyon Halloween Nature Crawl at the San Dimas Nature Center, Jane Goodall's Day of Peace, Bats & Brews at Frogtown Brewery, Skate Oddity's Ozzie tribute night, and the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair at the Los Angeles Convention Center. We reach underserved groups whenever possible and provide unique bat-focused educational opportunities.

Board of Directors

Our leadership team is made up of dedicated advocates and professionals who volunteer their time to support the organization at every level. From direct patient care to strategic oversight, our Board members ensure LABR remains both operational and on track to meet its longterm goals.

Amy Spencer

CEO/co-founder

Chair, Board of Directors

Brittany Enriquez

Director of Growth & Advancement Member, Board of Directors

Amy Kern

Secretary, Board of Directors

Catherine Fox

Member, Board of Directors

Lisa Phillips

Treasurer, Board of Directors

(Photo pending)