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Tennessee "bat blitz" collects conservation data

Tennessee wildlife researchers launched a two-night bat census this fall that they hope will power ongoing efforts to protect the animals.

Why it matters: Bat populations have declined amid habitat loss and the spread of a fungal disease called white-nose syndrome.

The annual "bat blitz" helps collect data that informs Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency conservation efforts.

By the numbers: TWRA said 50 biologists and volunteers captured and studied 316 bats in Fentress County and surrounding areas in late September.

The total represented nine of Tennessee's 16 bat species, including two federally endangered species: the Indiana bat and gray bat.
Researchers also documented the tricolored bat, which has been proposed for endangered status.

The big picture: Bats help control insect populations, benefiting farmers and the broader ecosystem.

Fun fact: Our friends at Axios Portland report a single bat can eat as many as 1,200 bugs in one night.

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