Scientists know that bats with white fungus on their noses
are dying in caves and mines across the Northeast. They know that more than 90 % of infected bats
in New York caves have died, and
they know the disease is spreading in Vermont. But beyond that, the scientific community is
baffled by what is killing our region’s bats.
We talk with bat biologist, Scott Darling, from the Vermont Department
of Fish and Wildlife, and Peter Youngbaer, the president of the Vermont Cavers’
Association, about how they’re investigating the disease, and about the role bats play in our ecosystem. (Listen)
Also, a home improvement store planning to build in St.
Albans has asked the state for permission to fill two
wetlands. Lowe’s Home Centers hopes to
build a 4-acre-store near a proposed Wal-Mart, and says its impact on the
wetlands is unavoidable. Burlington Free
Press reporter Candace Page joins us to talk about the proposal’s environmental
impact. (Listen)
View the Audio Slideshow: Bat White Nose Syndrome