A Bit About Bats

Bats are the world’s only flying mammal and New York State is home to nine different species. In this episode, hosts Sean and Erica are joined by DEC Wildlife Biologists Casey Kennedy and Ashley Meyer with the Division of Fish and Wildlife to explain how DEC’s Bat Diversity Program tracks population changes and distribution of bats throughout the state. Guests also discuss the many benefits bats provide, how New Yorkers can help support and restore bat populations, misconceptions about rabies, and the devastating impact of White Nose Syndrome that causes mass mortality in four of New York’s hibernating bat species.

Episode Notes:

• Bats of New York State (PDF)
• Protection of Northern Long-eared Bats
• DEC Encourages New Yorkers to Help Protect Bats During “Bat Week” (Oct. 2024)
• Bat Week (Oct. 24-31)
• Video: Catching Bats in a Mist Net (NYSDEC YouTube)

About: “DEC Does What?!” is a bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency’s wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Hosted by DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald. For more information, visit http://dec.ny.gov/podcast 

Have an idea about a future episode? Want to share your feedback? Send us an email at contact@dec.ny.gov using the subject line “DEC Podcast”.