The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing reclassifying the northern long-eared bat as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.
According to a March 22 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service news release, the reclassification could help conserve the bat before its decline in numbers cannot be altered. It was noted the bats, which measure 3-3.7 inches in length with a 9-10 inch wingspan, are an integral part of the ecosystem, controlling pests and aiding in pollination.
“White-nose syndrome is devastating northern long-eared bats at unprecedented rates, as indicated by this science-based finding,” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Director Charlie Wooley said release, citing a potential cause for the species' decline. “The service is deeply committed to continuing our vital research with partners on reducing the impacts of white-nose syndrome, while working with diverse stakeholders to conserve the northern long-eared bat and reduce impacts to landowners.”
According to the White-nose Syndrome Response Team, this particular disease is a primary threat to the bat species, attacking them as they hibernate. The website noted the bats get a white fungus on the face. The disease causes the creatures to become more active and burn fat they need for winter hibernation or engage in strange behaviors like flying outside in the daytime during winter.
The northern long-eared bat’s range in the United States includes 37 states and the District of Columbia, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
There are a number of projects in the wind energy and transportation segments that wouldn’t be impacted should the reclassification go forward, according to the news release. There have been talks with the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Railroad Administration and the Federal Transit Administration to discuss any projects throughout the range of the bat species, the release reported.
