Idaho Bats Contribute $313 Million to State Agriculture Annually

Idaho Fish and Game reports that bats contribute $313 million annually to the state's agricultural industry by consuming insect pests. The agency's state wildlife action plan coordinator, Rita Dixon, said the animals provide natural pest control for crops. "Bats contribute over $313 million annually to Idaho's agricultural industry by feeding on insect pests that damage our crops," Dixon said. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates bats save farmers across the United States over three billion dollars each year through this service.

The agency's comments coincide with Bat Week, observed from October 24 through Halloween. The event focuses on the ecological role of bats and the protection of their populations. Dixon described their activity as continuous nocturnal work. "They are a huge help," Dixon said. "While we are asleep at night and our heads resting on our pillow, they are out busy working."

Idaho is home to 14 bat species, and none feed on blood. Dixon said the animals generally avoid humans. "Bats by nature are gentle," Dixon said. "Unlike a lot of the misconceptions about bats that they attack you, they don't attack you." Bats are a protected non-game species in the state, making it illegal to hunt them. Residents who find a bat on their property can contact Idaho Fish and Game at 208-334-3700 for relocation resources.

Sierra Laverty, an entomologist at the University of Idaho, stated that local bat species prey on armyworms. These pests damaged lawns in Treasure Valley over the summer. "A couple of our local bat species, the big brown bat and little brown bat, are predators of fall and true armyworms," Laverty said. The loss of bat populations would reduce this natural control of insect pests.

White-nose syndrome, a fungal disease, poses a threat to bat populations. Dixon said areas in the Northeast have seen population declines between 90% and 100%.

Bat Week observances are scheduled to conclude on Halloween, October 31.