(Host) Wildlife officials are asking Vermonters to report any unusual bat activity in their region – especially in areas near caves and mines.
Similar to past winters, the Fish and Wildlife department is tracking changes in bat behavior as a result of White Nose Syndrome, which has afflicted hibernating bats throughout the state.
Bats with the syndrome may awaken from hibernation and leave their caves in search of food. Officials say the sick bats could end up in homes or other buildings to escape the cold temperatures.
Wildlife biologist Scott Darling says the disease has decimated populations of some bat species.
But he says getting reports from the public about dying bats helps the Wildlife department to monitor the spread of the disease.