Investigating Bat Die-off

On June 10-12, a Science Strategy Meeting was held on potential factors contributing to the unprecedented death of possibly hundreds of thousands of bats (Myotis and Perimyotis species, including the endangered Indiana bat) in New York, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania between 2005 and 2008.  Over 50 biologists and natural resource managers participated in the Albany, New York meeting.  A number of hypotheses are  being investigated on the cause of the die-off, including poor body condition, pathogens, environmental contaminants, and a combination of these and related factors.  Many affected bats exhibit fungal elements on the face ("White Nose Syndrome"), and preliminary findings suggest the agent may be related to Geomyces fungi.  Paul Cryan of the Fort Collins Science Center presented data on bat ecology, David Blehert of the National Wildlife Health Center discussed mycology and virology findings, and Barnett Rattner of the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center presented data on the potential involvement of environment contaminants in the die-off.  The USGS is deeply involved in monitoring and research related to this unfortunate event.

Contact Barnett Rattner, Laurel MD (301) 497-5671

HiLites Contact: Regina Lanning, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, 301-497-5509

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