DNR Supports Move To List Bat Species As Endangered

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is applauding Wednesday’s announcement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that it is listing the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species.

The federal agency made the decision with an interim rule under the Endangered Species Act that provides maximum benefit to the species while also providing reasonable limits to regulations.

DNR Director Keith Creagh calls the decision a biologically sound determination that will address the conservation needs of these bats in the specific areas of Michigan where they are found, while providing flexibility for those who live and work within the bats’ range.

Populations of northern long-eared bats have drastically declined due to white-nose syndrome, which has killed an estimated 5.5 million bats in the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest and Canada. The fungus that causes the disease thrives in low temperatures and high humidity – conditions commonly found in caves and mines where the bats hibernate.

In Michigan, white-nose syndrome has been confirmed in eight counties: Alpena, Dickinson, Keweenaw, Mackinac, Marquette, Ontonagon, Clare and Manistee.