Description
What is this?
A 253-piece mini building block kit that assembles into a bat in flight over a cave floor base. Made by Impact Photographics, the finished model has textured wings, realistic facial features, and a natural pose. It measures about 6 1/4 inches wide, 3 1/8 inches high, and 2 3/8 inches deep once built.
The blocks are micro-sized (4mm), smaller than LEGO bricks and not compatible with them. That smaller scale is what allows for the realistic detail in the wings and face. Each kit comes with a printed step-by-step instruction booklet, and Impact also offers a free MiniBlock Builder app with interactive 3D model views if you prefer building from a screen.
Bats are a real part of the Black Hills experience. Wind Cave National Park is home to at least 13 bat species, and Jewel Cave National Monument has its own bat populations. If you’ve taken a cave tour and seen bats roosting near the entrance, this kit lets you build your own version at home.
What’s in the box
- 253 mini building blocks
- Step-by-step printed instruction booklet
- Interpretive card with bat facts on the packaging
The box itself is compact at 3 3/8″ x 3 5/16″, so it fits easily in a shopping bag or suitcase if you’re buying at a park store.
Specifications
- Piece count: 253
- Assembled size: 6 1/4″ (W) x 3 1/8″ (H) x 2 3/8″ (D)
- Box size: 3 3/8″ x 3 5/16″
- Weight: 2.5 oz
- Material: Durable plastic
- Block size: Micro (4mm), not LEGO-compatible
- Age range: 7 and up
- Manufacturer: Impact Photographics
- UPC: 802285310016
Who is this for?
Kids 7 and up who like building. The 253-piece count is manageable in a single sitting. The micro blocks require some patience and fine motor coordination, which makes it more engaging than a simple snap-together toy. Younger builders (7-9) may want an adult nearby for tricky sections.
Bat fans and nature enthusiasts. If someone in your life gets excited about bats, cave ecology, or nocturnal wildlife, this is a specific and thoughtful gift. The finished model looks good on a desk or shelf.
Cave tour souvenirs. Sold in BHPFA park stores at Wind Cave and Jewel Cave, where bats are part of the actual cave experience. It’s a souvenir that gives you something to do after the visit rather than something that just sits in a drawer.
Frequently asked questions
Are these the same size as LEGO bricks?
No. These are micro-sized blocks (4mm), smaller than LEGO and not compatible with LEGO or similar brands. That smaller scale is what allows for the realistic wing texture and facial detail at this size.
How long does it take to build?
Most builders finish in 1 to 2 hours. The instruction booklet walks through it step by step. Impact Photographics also offers a free MiniBlock Builder app with interactive 3D views if you prefer digital instructions.
Is this sturdy once it’s built?
The pieces lock together firmly. You can pick it up and move it to a shelf without it falling apart. Dust it with a dry cloth. Avoid water or chemical cleaners on the blocks.
Is this safe for younger kids?
The set is rated for ages 7 and up. It contains small parts and is a choking hazard for children under 3. Kids 7 to 9 may need some help with the smaller sections.
What kind of bat is this modeled after?
The model is based on the Brazilian free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis), one of the most common bat species in North America. These bats are known for their fast, agile flight and are found across the southern and western United States.
Does buying this support national parks?
Yes. Your purchase supports Black Hills Parks & Forests Association, the official nonprofit partner of Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, and the Black Hills National Forest. BHPFA funds education programs, trail maintenance, and visitor services across these sites.
What other mini building block sets does BHPFA carry?
BHPFA also carries Elk Mini Building Blocks and Bald Eagle Mini Building Blocks, both by Impact Photographics at the same price. Collect all three for a Black Hills wildlife display.
Other mini building blocks from BHPFA
Impact Photographics makes dozens of wildlife mini building block sets. BHPFA carries three:
- Bat (253 pieces, this product)
- Elk
- Bald Eagle
All three are $10.99 each and make a good set for a desk or bookshelf.
