Evaluating bat diversity and activity in developed and undeveloped locations of West Virginia’s northern panhandle

Bat populations are declining due to habitat loss and the spread of deadly fungal pathogen, white-nose syndrome. Increased studies bat their diversity necessary ensure survival. activity levels understudied in Northern Panhandle West Virginia. For our study, sixteen sites were selected (four each county: Ohio, Brooke, Hancock Marshall). Using mobile ultrasonic detectors, calls detected from different species at location while walking a 1-kilometer transect after sunset. In addition, stationary recorders placed all four counties over summer subset during fall spring. Our null hypothesis suggests that sites/transects will not show any statistical difference developed or undeveloped locations Virginia’s Panhandle. alternative formulates be statistically between transects. Results transects significant (p = 0.008433). Sites were, still are, being evaluated based on number recorded site.