In 2006-2007, the bat colonies in the Northeastern US have declined 75%.  Over 100,000 bats have died due to a cold-loving fungus linked to white-nose syndrome, scientist at the USGA state. Affected species include little brown bats, northern bats, tricolored bats, Indiana bats, small-footed myotis and big brown bats. “Data show the occurrence of white-nose syndrome radiating outward from the site of its first appearance, and genetic identity among fungal isolates from distant caves argues for a recent introduction of this microbe.  Before the identification of white-nose syndrome, mass mortality events in bats as a result of disease were very rare,” says lead USGS microbiologist David Blehert.

Many people fear bats, but they are a critical ecological player in insect control, plant pollination and seed dissemination.  The decline in bats should have a direct impact on industries.

Source: http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=2058