The analysis linked the increase in toxic chemicals since 2006 through 2017 to the deaths of 1,334 infants across 1,185 counties in 27 states, predominantly on the East Coast. This correlation underscores a dire public health challenge, as regions heavily reliant on these bats for natural pest control experienced alarming spikes in infant mortality rates.
Bats consume a significant amount of insects, estimated at least 40 percent of their body weight nightly, thus providing invaluable ecosystem services. The loss of these bats due to the invasive white-nose syndrome has forced farmers to resort to chemical pesticides, substantially increasing environmental and health risks for communities situated near these agricultural areas.
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