Cumberland Times-News

Local News

March 18, 2010

Bat disease confirmed in cave near Cumberland

CUMBERLAND (AP) — State wildlife managers are restricting access to known bat locations in Western Maryland after a test confirmed the presence of a disease fatal to the winged mammals in a cave near Cumberland.

The Department of Natural Resources said Thursday that four bats were infected with the fungus linked to White-Nose Syndrome.

The fungus causes lesions on the muzzles of bats. It appears to wake them from hibernation before there are enough insects to keep them from starving.

DNR Veterinarian Cindy Driscoll said the agency will implement a regimen of restricted access and decontamination procedures for all known bat locations.

She said the disease is believed to be limited to the mountains of Western Maryland.

 

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