Bat Week, the international celebration of bats, takes place this year Oct. 24-31 and is the perfect time to shine a light on these important species. Michigan is home to nine species of bats, all of which are insectivores. During the evening hours, these flying mammals consume many insect pests including mosquitoes, beetles, moths and flies. The DNR, along with numerous partners, works to conserve bats and bat habitat because many species are in decline. White-nose syndrome is a deadly disease that affects North American bats primarily during their winter hibernation and has devastated many bat species. Infected bats prematurely awaken from hibernation, rapidly deplete their fat reserves and are unable to survive the winter. Bats with this syndrome often exhibit unusual behavior, like flying during daylight hours or gathering outside of caves in cold weather. Learn about our efforts to conserve Michigan's bats in our Wildlife Conservation Month story. Here’s how you can help bats:
Learn more about bats and ways you can take action during Bat Week – and all year long – at BatWeek.org. More information on Michigan's bat species and ways to help is available at Michigan.gov/Bats. Questions? Contact the DNR Wildlife Division at 517-284-9453.
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