A lethal disease that has virtually eliminated entire bat colonies in parts of the United States has arrived in this area.
White-nose syndrome has been discovered near the community of Flesherton in Southern Grey County and two other areas of the Province.
The mysterious illness leaves the bats looking like their muzzles have been dusted with flour.
Ministry of Natural Resources Wildlife Health Advisor John Dungavell only a small number of bats have died in the Flesherton area so far, but they are worried that the disease will quickly spread.
He says the disease has killed more than one million bats in the Northeast US in just three or four years and the concern the same could happen to bat colonies here.
If that did happen and bat numbers plunge it would have serious implications for the agriculture and forestry sectors as bats feed on many night time insects that damage crops and trees.
Dungavell says at the moment there is no known way to stop the spread of the disease and there is no known cure.
He its important for people to keep out of any caves where bats may be living as its possible the disease can be spread from one site to another on a persons clothing or footwear.
Dungavell says there is no evidence at this time that white-nose syndrome can impact human health.
However he says the MNR wants to a close eye on the spread of the disease and if anyone finds a dead bat with the symptoms of the disease, they should call a special number to talk to some experts.
That number is 1 866-673-4781.
Dungavell also says its important for people not to handle any dead bat because of the possibility it could also have rabies.