The genetic secret helping bats survive a deadly epidemic
Short Wave

The genetic secret helping bats survive a deadly epidemic

B2Upper-intermediateOctober 5, 202613 min
  • Science

We’re easing you into Halloween season with an episode about bats. There’s a silent serial killer decimating little brown bats as they hibernate. White nose syndrome has driven populations across the U.S. to almost the brink of extinction over the last decade. But recently, conservation biologist Giorgia Auteri and her team noticed several genetic mutations in the survivors. These mutations could explain how natural selection has shifted the existing population – and inform conservation efforts in the future. Interested in more animal science? Email us your question at [email protected]. Support public media with N...

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A free press is a critical protection for We the People. The NPR network proudly upholds your First Amendment rights with independent journalism that answers only to you. Your support keeps our reporters on the ground holding power to account, and the power to

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Okay, let's talk about bats. Part of me thinks they're cute. I mean, I love Batman. And part of me thinks they're scary.

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