Charleston, W.V. (AP) -- The Division of Natural Resources is trying to determine if a disease that has killed thousands of hibernating bats has found its way to West Virginia.

Dead bats discovered earlier this month at a Pendleton County cave showed symptoms of white-nose syndrome, but tests are being conducted to be sure.

DNR spokesman Jack Wallace says two other caves were surveyed, but no mysterious bat deaths were reported.

Wallace says the dead bats in the Pendleton County cave had a white, powdery substance on their faces, but didn't exhibit other problems associated with the disease, such as low body weight.

White-Nose Syndrome is named for the white ring of fungus found on some stricken bats.

It has killed thousands of hibernating bats in caves in New York, Vermont and Massachusetts. It's also been found in caves in Pennsylvania.

Since February, 47 West Virginia caves with known bat colonies have been closed in an attempt to keep the disease from spreading.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)