Fungus That Harms Bats Found in Three More Washington Counties

YAKIMA, Wash.--The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife has detected the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome in bats in at least three more Washington counties. Officials say the fungus was found in Chelan, Mason and Yakima counties. The fungus has been previously documented in King, Pierce, Lewis, Snohomish, and Kittias counties.

White-nose syndrome is often fatal for bats because it causes them to leave hibernation early and subsequently die of dehydration or starvation. Bats are important because they eat insects that can have a negative effect on forest health, commercial crops, and human health. You can learn more on the Department of Fish and Wildlife website.