Wildlife Disease

Bats and White-Nose Syndrome

White-nose syndrome has killed millions of hibernating bats across North America, with cascading ecological and welfare consequences.

Key Facts

White-nose syndrome is caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, introduced from Europe
It has killed an estimated 6.7 million bats in North America since 2006
Some species such as the little brown bat have declined by 90% in affected areas
Infected bats rouse from hibernation repeatedly, burning fat reserves until they die of starvation
Bats are critical insect predators — losing them increases agricultural pest pressure

Welfare Considerations

Dying of starvation while unable to find food during winter is a prolonged welfare harm. Millions of bats experienced this fate. Conservation efforts including cave closures to humans and probiotic treatments are reducing spread but the disease continues to advance geographically.

What You Can Do

Decontaminate footwear and gear before entering caves to avoid spreading the fungus
Install bat boxes near your property to support summer roost populations
Support research funding for white-nose syndrome treatments and vaccines