Bats suffering from mysterious syndrome

Bats, nature's little insect eating machines, are dying in disturbing numbers throughout the East. Biologists have found sick, dying and dead bats in unprecedented numbers in and around caves and mines from Vermont to Virginia. In spots where bats hibernate, affected bats usually have white fungus on their muzzles and parts of their bodies. They frequently lack adequate body fat to survive until spring. Known as white-nose syndrome (WNS) http://www.fws.gov/northeast/white_nose.html , it was only recently identified as a fungus (Geomyces sp.) If WNS is not eradicated, there's a real possibility of losing entire bat species, which would increase the population of many beetles, moths, aquatic flies and mosquitoes, including pests that plague nurseries and home landscapes. Nearly 100 groups are working together to solve the WNS mystery. If you discover a large bat kill, contact the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (800) 344-9453.