Mysterious bat die-off in the Northeast
Bats in the Northeast have died in massive numbers over the last few months and no one knows why. There are over 1,000 bat species globally and these flying mammals are important players in their respective ecosystems. Northeastern bat species feed on insects and play a role in controlling insect populations. Some of the species affected include the little brown bat, the small-footed bat and the endangered Indiana bat. Let's hope we find a cause and cure for this mysterious epidemic soon.
I completly support helping the bats with this. If anyone knows where I can go to get information on where to help them, please let me know.
Posted by: Lauren Allen | March 29, 2008 at 10:02 PM
Thanks Lauren. Right now it looks like the most anyone can do is stay out of caves since it looks like humans might be spreading the disease. Sounds like state wildlife agencies and scientists still have a lot of research into the problem before they will recommend specific actions. I'll post any updates I hear on this blog.
David Mizejewski
NWF Naturalist
Posted by: David Mizejewski | March 31, 2008 at 02:51 PM
I have to say bats scare me to death, but I have gotten attached to a few that have lost their way or hung around a window during day time and one sick one. I think they are cute but for some reason when in flight they scare me (probably a childhool thing) I sure don't want to lose any of them as they are healthy for us to save. I wish I knew more about them but from the west coast, all I can do is sign petitions and pray that this human race wakes up someday. If you start petitions, please notify me as I would be happy to help. If you have any other way I can help, let me know. Thank you for caring about these little guys
Posted by: sandy valencour | April 04, 2008 at 01:50 PM
what about environmental implications per cellphone tech - microwave radiation ?
Posted by: Kay | April 04, 2008 at 07:48 PM