What if I find dead or dying bats in winter or early spring, or observe bats with signs of WNS?
In Georgia, contact the Wildlife Resources Division at GADNRBats@dnr.state.ga.us or (770) 918-6411. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a federally protected species. If possible, photograph the potentially affected bats (including close-up shots) and send the photograph and a report to the Wildlife Resources Division. State wildlife agencies that are members of the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study can submit bats to SCWDS for clinical diagnosis using the form available at www.uga.edu/scwds/diagnostic.htm. If you need to dispose of a dead bat found on your property, pick it up with a plastic bag over your hand or use disposable gloves. Place the bat and the bag into another plastic bag, spray with disinfectant, close the bag securely, and dispose of it with your garbage. Thoroughly wash your hands and any clothing that comes into contact with the bat. If you see a band on the wing or a small device with an antenna on the back of a bat (living or