Bats are vital to our ecosystem.
(c) Michael Durham
Helping bats in Washington State
Bats Northwest envisions a future where the essential role of bats is understood, the public recognizes the vital place of bats in our environment and economy, and where all are inspired by their remarkable and invaluable contribution to our natural heritage.
Upcoming events
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Lakewold Gardens All Hallows Festival
Saturday, October 17
6PM - 9PM
Bats Northwest is excited to be joining Lakewold Gardens in their "All Hallows Festival".We will be among one of the booths you can discover as you explore the haunted grounds of Lakewold Gardens.
Tickets available now.
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BeWild Speaker Series: For the Love of Bats
Thursday, October 22
6:30PM - 8:30PMAs part of the BeWild Speaker Series, The Mountaineers invite you for an inspiring evening with author Niki Desautels in celebration of her new book, For the Love of Bats: Exploring Nature at Night with the West’s Flying Mammals.
Tickets available now.
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Fall Lantern Festival
Friday, October 23
5PM - 7:30PMBats Northwest is excited to be joining Freeway Park Association as they host their Fall Lantern Festival on Friday October 23, 2026.
Come spend a delightful evening celebrating the community and the changing of seasons.
This event is free & open to the public.
Get Involved
Bats are at risk as a result of habitat destruction, the introduction of invasive species, hunting, and climate change. Bat populations could continue to decline, and without intervention, these threats could lead to species extinctions.
We have the power to help bat populations throughout Washington by working together. Join us in our mission to increase public awareness and promote a greater appreciation for bats.
White-nose syndrome
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a disease that affects hibernating bats and is caused by a fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, or Pd for short. Pd grows in cold, dark and damp places. It attacks the bare skin of bats while they’re hibernating in a relatively inactive state. As it grows, Pd causes bats to become active more than usual and burn up fat they need to survive the winter.
Community Science
Bats Northwest conducts and supports several research efforts in Washington.
Our volunteers aid in long-term acoustic monitoring projects in the Puget Sound area to gain insights into our species and their range. Programs like Bat Activity Trends (B.A.T.) involve the public in collecting observational data on local bat activity, teaching us about the habitats that support bats.
