This design is about celebrating all the bat species in Massachusetts, but also drawing attention to their dangerous decline. Only one of the species featured is not considered endangered or of special concern in Massachusetts. This is primarily due to the deadly and contagious White-Nose Syndrome, but also a result of habitat loss, and pesticides that cause insect populations to drop. Bats themselves are natural pest controllers and ecosystem balancers. None of the Massachusetts bats are pollinators, but many other bat species are important pollinators. Bats are our buddies and we need to look out for them! A million thanks to @josegabrielwildlife and @pricelsewell on Instagram for generously allowing us to use their extraordinary photos to bring this idea to life.