Bats
often conjure images of vampires and rabies. Now, "white nose syndrome" is
emerging as a leading killer of these flying mammals. It's largely to blame for
a 90 percent population drop in bats across three states in the Northeastern U.S.
What is White Nose
Syndrome?
A ring of white fungal growth on the muzzles and wings of
bats, white nose syndrome (WNS) has killed over a million bats in the U.S. Little is known about what causes WNS; it may
come from pneumonia, disrupted hibernation, variable winter weather, or the
spraying of pesticides to combat West Nile Virus. It is not yet known how WNS spreads.
The impact is described as the largest threat to bats with some
caves suffering from 90 percent mortality rates. First discovered in a cave in Schoharie County, New
York in 2006, WNS has spread to over eight
states.
Consequences of a
Reduced Bat Population
For people who suffer from chiroptophobia, or a fear of
bats, a rapidly declining bat population sounds great. Others are disheartened by the news as bats
are good for the environment. Their number one job is pest patrol. It has been estimated that 2.4 million pounds
of insects will go uneaten as a result of the decline in the bat
population.
More insects will be left to damage crops, which could lead
to an increase in pesticide use or/and an increase in grocery prices. The
increase in insects can also aid in the spread of disease.
Research and Help
WNS has not gone unnoticed by wildlife societies and
researchers:
Resources:
http://www.timesunion.com/ASPStories/Story.asp?storyID=879223&newsdate=2/2/2010&BCCode=MBTA
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_nose_syndrome
http://www.fws.gov/northeast/white_nose.html
http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/45088.html
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