The Local Weekly The heart and soul of our communities with news and information about the Sunshine Coast
A little brown bat with visible symptoms of fungal growth typical of White-Nose Syndrome. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service photo
Reporting dead bats may help save the lives of our BC bats. The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project is asking residents to report any dead bats to help determine the distribution of White-Nose Syndrome, a fungal disease harmless to humans but responsible for the deaths of millions of insect-eating bats in North America.
To monitor the spread of this disease, biologists have been collecting reports of unusual winter bat activity across southern BC and ensuring that dead bats are sent for disease testing. Information gained from dead bats and reports of live bats can help determine the extent of the disease, and determine priorities for conservation efforts.
Spring conditions now mean increased bat activity – and an increased chance of detecting the disease. As bats begin to leave hibernation and return to their summering grounds, our chances of seeing live or dead bats increases.
“We are asking the public to report dead bats or any sightings of daytime bat activity as soon as possible by calling 604-989-1007,” says Wildlife Project Leader, Dr. Michelle Evelyn. “Remember to never touch a bat with your bare hands.”
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