Tri-colored bats are in danger of dying out. Here’s how to save them in Georgia.
Halloween is right around the corner and we’re hung up on this sucky news: tri-colored bats are dying out.
The Peach State is no stranger to this species, as they can be found in caves, mines and tunnels, according to the Georgia Biodiversity website. Although they are still the most common cave-dwelling species during the winter, the species is currently facing threats of extinction due to white-nose syndrome.
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a disease caused by fungus that thrives in damp, dark places. The White-Nose Syndrome Response Team website states that it attacks the bare skin of bats while they’re hibernating.
As it grows, white-noise syndrome causes changes in bats that make them become more active than usually, thus causing the animals to burn up fat they need to survive the winter. B
“Bats with white-nose syndrome may do strange things like fly outside in the daytime in the winter,” the website says.
But there’s good news.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has proposed to list the tri-colored bat species under the Endangered Species Act. The Service announced their plan with a Facebook post, calling it a “wing up” for the bats.
When a species is listed as endangered, there are certain measures in place to protect the animals from being harassed or killed; there are also plans put in place for habitat conservation and growth.
Bats are essential for healthy ecosystems and contribute at least $3 billion annually to the U.S. agriculture economy through pest control and polliation, the Fish & Wildlife service says.
Bats also pollinate the agave plant, an ingredient found in tequila.
You can easily help save bats in Georgia:
- Be a bat ambassador and spread the word.
Turn off unnecessary lights and watch for bats.
Promote natural habitat around your home.
Feed hungry bats by minimizing the use of pesticides in your yard.
Provide shelter by installing a bat box.
Avoid disturbing bats.
Remove unwanted bats humanely.
More information about what you can do to help can be found on the Fish & Wildlife Service website.
This story was originally published October 11, 2022 at 11:46 AM.
