Bats' White-Nose Syndrome Keeps Caving Limited in Georgia

Bats are dying. 

And, though that may be welcome news to many. It's terrible news for people who like gallivanting through caves. 

In recent years, dwindling bat populations due to disease, specifically white-nose syndrome, have forced the closure of many caves, including here in Georgia.

In March, researches discovered white-nose syndrome in two caves in northwest Georgia, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. The name describes a white fungus often found on the muzzles, ears and wings of infected bats.

Researches believe the disease spreads mainly through bat-to-bat contact. And, when humans go poking around cave dwellings, they run the risk carrying disease spores with them.

So, state officials close caves to help conserve the bat population. 

Georgia has a thorough response plan, including working with cave owners, managing access to caves and mines for research and educating cavers about decontamination.