Bat with white nose syndrome detected near Seattle as disease inches towards B.C.

Wildlife officials are urging British Columbians to report unusual bat activity in the province after a diseased bat was found near Seattle.

The Ministry of the Environment says experts are concerned that White Nose Syndrome could spread to bat species in B.C., although it has not been detected in the province yet.

The deadly fungal disease is not a threat to human health but sickens and kills bats during their winter hibernation period.

Members of the public are asked to report any strange bat movement, including bats flying during the day or finding dead or dying bats.

However, officials are warning people not to handle an ill bat with bare hands because it could carry rabies.

The ministry says the disease has killed over six million bats across 28 states and five provincesafter it was first detected in New York in 2006.

"Since bats play a crucial role in providing essential pest control for farmers, foresters and city residents, a reduction in their population could lead to significant ecological and economic impacts," said the ministry in a written release.

The public is asked to phone the B.C. Community Bat Program toll free at 1-855-922-2287 with sightings.

With files from CBC News