The protection of cave roosts led to an increase in numbers since the 1980s, however, a mysterious disease is devastating bat populations in the eastern US, and certain species are under threat of extinction. This disease is called white-nose syndrome, which has been associated with a previously unknown fungus that invades the bat's skin.

For more detailed information visit: www.wvdnr.gov or www.npwrc.usgs.gov or www.fws.gov.