White-nose Syndrome

Bat Conservation International (BCI) is an organization dedicated to our flying mammal friends. They are mobilizing in response to a bat affliction known as white-nose syndrome {wiki} that has killed thousands of bats.

Entire bat species are potentially at risk if scientists cannot solve this puzzle soon. White-nose syndrome (WNS), named for a white fungus found on the faces of some affected bats, has been reported since the winter of 2006-7 in New York, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and possibly Pennsylvania. Mortality rates of up to 95 percent have been documented in some populations hit by WNS. Five bat species are affected by the syndrome, with little brown myotis hit the hardest. Endangered Indiana myotis also are taking losses.

The cause remains elusive. (Few scientists believe the fungus is the source of WNS.)

BCI is co-sponsoring a meeting of scientists in June to discuss white-nose syndrome. You can help by joining BCI or by making a donation. Or just read to find out more. Link -Thanks, Thor!

(image credit: josdiiri)