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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Bat Trivia at Old Stove Gardens
Sunday, May 17th 4:00PM — 7:00PM
It’s time to kick off our Bat Activity Trends 2026 season Trivia style! Join Bats Northwest Volunteers at Old Stove Gardens in Ballard for a fun night of talking bats and testing your batty knowledge.
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Wildlife Coexistence Day
Saturday, June 6th 9AM - 12PM
Stop by our table at the Issaquah second annual Wildlife Coexistence Day. Come learn how people and bats can coexist and thrive together!
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Bat Talks & Community Science Nights
Our summer Bat Talks and Community Science Nights at Green Lake in Seattle, dates have been set. Come learn about our local bat species, and find out how you can help protect bats. These programs are free and open to everyone. Mark your calendars as our Bat Talks will be July 9 & 24, Aug 6 & 21 and Sept 4. We will also have three (3) Community Science Nights on July 17, Aug 13 and Aug 27.
Registration for all will open soon.
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.
