WV Northern Flying Squirrel

Indiana Bat

Cheat Mountain Salamander

Virginia Big-Eared Bat

Northern Water Shrew

Running Buffalo Clover
 
 

The Indiana Bat has been found in significant numbers in some West Virginia caves. They have been identified foraging in the Blackwater Canyon. The Indiana Bat is a small brown bat with a wingspan of approximately 9.5-10.5 inches. During the winter the bat hibernates in caves. During the summer months females form small colonies under the loose bark of trees where they raise their young. Males also appear to form small colonies in trees, either in hollow trees or under loose bark. In August the bats gather near their hibernacula, in the fall swarming period. At this time they mate and eat insects voraciously to put on fat for the winter hibernation. Early studies indicated that wooded areas along rivers were the preferred feeding areas, but more recent studies suggest that upland forests are also used.

  

ALERT!  Endangered Bats Facing New Threat!

Citing a threat to bats from a new disease that is widespread, severe, and imminent, Friends of Blackwater has joined in coalition with other conservation organizations, including the Center for Biological Diversity and Heartwood,  in petitioning the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for immediate action to prevent further harm to endangered bats.

To read the petition click here.To read the press release click here.

To read the article that appeared in the Charleston Gazette please click here.

 

 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

FRIENDS OF BLACKWATER
501 ELIZABETH STREET - CHARLESTON, WV 25311
1-877-WVA-LAND
INFO@SAVEBLACKWATER.ORG