Bats are vital to our ecosystem.
(c) Michael Durham
Helping bats in Washington State
Bats Northwest envisions a future where the essential role of bats is understood, the public recognizes the vital place of bats in our environment and economy, and where all are inspired by their remarkable and invaluable contribution to our natural heritage.
Upcoming events
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Puget Sound Bird Fest
Saturday, May 31 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Come join us at the Puget Sound Bird Fest in Edmonds. Grab your binoculars and not only learn about birds but about NW Basts as well and nature galore. Activities include presentations by local authors, scientists and naturalists , educational exhibits, kids activities and more.
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Green Lake Bat Talks
Join us this summer at Green Lake in Seattle to learn about our local bat species, and find out how you can help protect bats. These programs are free and open to everyone. Mark your calendars as our Bat talks will be July 10th, July 24th, Aug 14th and Aug 28th. We will also have two (2) Community Science for Bats Night on July 31 and Sept 4th which will require registration.
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Snohomish County Master Gardener Exploring Nature for the Whole Family
Saturday, June 21 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM
We will have a booth at Snohomish County WSU Master Gardeners Nature Day on Saturday, June 21 at Willis D. Tucker Community Park. Come learn about our different Northwest Bat species.
Get Involved
Bats are at risk as a result of habitat destruction, the introduction of invasive species, hunting, and climate change. Bat populations could continue to decline, and without intervention, these threats could lead to species extinctions.
We have the power to help bat populations throughout Washington by working together. Join us in our mission to increase public awareness and promote a greater appreciation for bats.
White-nose syndrome
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a disease that affects hibernating bats and is caused by a fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, or Pd for short. Pd grows in cold, dark and damp places. It attacks the bare skin of bats while they’re hibernating in a relatively inactive state. As it grows, Pd causes bats to become active more than usual and burn up fat they need to survive the winter.
Community Science
Bats Northwest conducts and supports several research efforts in Washington.
Our volunteers aid in long-term acoustic monitoring projects in the Puget Sound area to gain insights into our species and their range. Programs like Bat Activity Trends (B.A.T.) involve the public in collecting observational data on local bat activity, teaching us about the habitats that support bats.
