In October 2023, subscribers met the Bats.
In Birdmoss, the Bats and their customs are a mystery to most. Many Bats dwell in the Birdmoss Below. It is a place of stone and darkness, magnetic fields and strange echoes, uninhabitable by most creatures.
The Bats, however, can travel between worlds, emerging from the Birdmoss Below to the Birdmoss Above to fly and feed.
While in their caves, they huddle together for warmth and companionship. When they take to the sky, they dance together in murmurations, swirling under the Moon.
The Bats Box includes an abundance of beautiful objects; hints and additions to expand the story; a mysterious document; and a lore card.
Some items are available for individual purchase.
- Mysterious Document
- An instructional document is augmented with marginalia which will help you interpret clues. It is available only in the Bats Box.
- Lore Card
- The Bats are introduced in a full-color collectible 4x6 inch lore card. The artwork for this month's lore card was created by Joanna Rzepecka, a Warsaw, Poland-based illustrator. She says, "My work is inspired by biodiversity, mainly animals. Through my work, I'm trying to capture moments where nature is untouched by humans. Peaceful scenery, colors, and rough textures are some things that I enjoy the most."
- Bat Talisman - Pendant On Black Cord
- The Bats feel believe that they share a special connection with you. Just as you can travel between your world and Birdmoss, the Bats can travel between the Birdmoss Below and the Birdmoss Above. And, like the Bats, you possess formidable powers of intuition and perception, even in the darkness. You receive a talisman which has been quickened with ashes to draw forth those powers.
- Navigation Tool - Magnetic Compass Supplies
- The Bats are gifted with a magnetic sensory system, informed by tiny magnetite crystals in their bodies. You receive supplies so that you, too, can be guided by the earth’s magnetic fields as you explore the Bats’ underground caves. Float your magnetized needle upon a leaf in a vessel of water; whisper “Earthly Force, show me North” as the needle swings into place. Follow its direction until you reach the Bat’s cavern.
- Hiding Place - Pomegranate Box
- The dark, tannic pomegranate is the symbol of the Birdmoss Below. Its seeds are reminiscent of blood, wine, and shadow; most flinch away from the spray of juice when the fruit is opened. Therefore, it is the perfect hiding place for small secrets.
- Broom, Bell, & Cord - Cleansing Charm
- You find a length of scarlet cord and a tinkling bell inside the hiding place. Quicken the cord with three knots and tie the bell to your broom. Use your broom in sweeping-out rituals for small spaces, or as seasonal decor.
- Bat In Flight - Iron Ornament
- Flying with the Bats, you feel simultaneously free and connected. Your ornament is made of protective iron, so hang it by a doorway, window, or any other entry. Its rusty patina evokes the fallow seasons when growth is paused for recovery.
- Invocation Of The Firetender - Simmer Pot Kit
- As the sun begins to rise, you prepare to leave the Bats. They pass along a packet of herbs, rind, and bark from the Foxes. The Foxes practice an herbal alchemy and their Firetender has requested a meeting with you. Simmer the contents of the packet to purify your space. The fragrance will help you prepare for your encounter with the Firetender.
One-time box purchases include shipping costs. They usually ship within 3 business days of purchase.
"If you have any issues with your purchase, please reach out to me at shannon@birdmoss.com, and I'll personally do everything I can to make it right."
- Shannon, Birdmoss Curator and Liaison