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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United in Conservation 2026
Friday, October 2
9AM - 4PMJoin the Thurston Conservation District for their biennial local conference at Lacey Community Center.
Niki Desautels will be leading a discussion on habitat conservation for bats.
Tickets available now.
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Third Place Books: 'For the Love of Bats' by Niki Desautels
Thursday, October 7
7PM - 8:30PMThird Place Books and the North Cascade Institute present Niki Desautels for a discussion of her new book, For the Love of Bats: Exploring Nature at Night with the West’s Flying Mammals.
Registration is required for this event.
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Lakewold Gardens All Hallows Festival
Saturday & Sunday
October 17 — 18
6PM - 9PM
Bats Northwest is excited to be joining Lakewold Gardens in their "All Hallows Festival".We will be among one of the booths you can discover as you explore the haunted grounds of Lakewold Gardens.
Tickets available now.
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.
