Indiana Bats Resurface in NC Forest

Scientists in Nantahala National Forest made a thrilling discovery: a rare Indiana bat colony thought extinct in North Carolina for 14 years, tucked inside a dead eastern hemlock tree. After a grueling 3-day hike through rugged terrain, researchers found these critically endangered bats—whose numbers have plummeted by half—using high-frequency echolocation to hunt and navigate. Their survival is threatened by pesticides, white-nose syndrome, and invasive pests like the hemlock wooly adelgid, which killed the tree they’re now using. Tracking them is nearly impossible due to mountainous terrain and their long-range flight, making this find a major conservation win. Officials are now monitoring the colony closely, reminding us that even the smallest victories matter in protecting vulnerable species. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8e65ee3de8d2ea64