The EPRI Current celebrates Bat Week by highlighting a surprising yet vital connection: the electric sector is working with conservationists to protect bats from a deadly disease. Bats play a crucial role in ecosystems, and their survival is increasingly threatened by a fungal disease known as white-nose syndrome.

 

 

In this episode, host Samantha Gilman is joined by EPRI’s Christian Newman and Dr. Winifred Frick from Bat Conservation International to unpack the “Fat Bat” project – a collaborative effort to combat white-nose syndrome using UV light “bug buffets” to help bats bulk up before hibernation, boosting their chances of survival. With insights into bat ecology, conservation strategies, industry partnerships, and bats' role in pollination (including tequila production), this episode showcases how cross-sector collaboration is helping protect these vital pollinators and pest controllers. Plus, learn about The Invisible Mammal, a new documentary featuring the project.

 

 

For more information and episodes visit EPRI.com.