Wildlife

White-Nose Syndrome – Bats

White-nose syndrome has killed over 90% of northern long-eared, little brown and tri-colored bat populations in fewer than 10 years, according to a new study published in Conservation Biology. White-nose syndrome is a disease that affects hibernating bats and is caused by an invasive, cold-loving fungus. The fungus grows on bats’ skin, disturbing their hibernation and resulting in dehydration, starvation and often death. First documented in New York in 2006, white-nose syndrome has since spread to 35 states and seven Canadian provinces and has been confirmed in 12 North American bat species.

There is no known cure for white-nose syndrome, but scientists worldwide are working together to study the disease and determine how it can be controlled. Bats eat insects and are critical pest controllers. In the United States alone, bats are estimated to save farmers at least $3.7 billion per year in pest control services. The loss of so many nighttime insect predators can have cascading effects on the environment, with potential to affect forestry, agriculture and human health.

Numerous States have enacted protections for the bats, taking measures to ensure the disease does not spread further.

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