Wildlife

Wild Bats White Nose Syndrome Risk UK

White-nose syndrome (WNS), devastating North American bat populations, is caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans present in Europe. UK vigilance is essential.

Key Facts

WNS has killed millions of bats in North America since 2006
Pd fungus causes bats to rouse frequently from hibernation, depleting energy reserves
The fungus is present in European bat populations but causes less severe mortality
UK bat populations may have some natural resistance from long co-evolution
Biosecurity at cave and mine sites prevents spread between sites

Welfare Considerations

WNS causes bats to rouse repeatedly during hibernation, depleting fat reserves and causing starvation before winter ends. Affected bats emerge prematurely in cold conditions and starve. Vigilance monitoring for unusual bat mortality, biosecurity at hibernation sites, and reducing other bat stressors that might weaken immunity are key welfare precautions.

What You Can Do

Report unusual bat mortality events to the Bat Conservation Trust
Follow biosecurity guidelines when visiting caves or mines
Support Bat Conservation Trust monitoring of UK bat populations