First report of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tracts of North American insectivorous bats

Our results indicate that the ingestion of MPs by bats could lead to lower bat mass, potentially related to poorer body condition or ability to store fat. The ability to store and use fat is crucial for the survival of these migrating and cave-hibernating species. Moreover, bats with higher fat stores are more likely to survive multiple stressors such as the non-native fungal disease white-nose syndrome. This study will allow future research to build off baseline information and further explore the effects of MPs to individuals and populations of bats of conservation concern.