White nose syndrome bat disease more dire than ever

A new report issued today by NY’s DEC finds that more than 90% of bats in the Northeast’s most important hibernation caves are dead.

In some species, mortality tops 93%. Sadly, there’s no evidence that the survivors are tougher or more resistant to the fungal disease. It appears that they’re just ‘lucky,’ says wildlife biologist Al Hicks.

There’s really nothing particularly hopeful to report here. But there is some indication that a few species are weathering the storm better; dryer caves also seem to be a bit safer.

A lot of us noticed far fewer bats on our ponds and woodlots last summer. As the disease spreads west, it appears that this could mushroom into a national emergency.

A North Woods without bats flitting and capering overhead? Hard to imagine.