Wildlife

Wild Bat White-Nose Syndrome and UK Risk

White-nose syndrome has devastated North American bat populations and poses a potential future threat to European bat species.

Key Facts

White-nose syndrome is caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans
It has killed over 90% of some North American bat species since 2006
The fungus is native to Europe but European bats appear to have some resistance
Cave biosecurity measures prevent human-mediated spread on caving equipment
Research into probiotic treatments and vaccines is ongoing in North America

Welfare Considerations

White-nose syndrome causes catastrophic population losses with bats dying slowly from fungal infection during hibernation. While immediate UK threat is lower, cave biosecurity and research investment are proportionate precautionary welfare measures. Maintaining awareness and preparedness protects both individual bats and populations.

What You Can Do

Follow cave biosecurity protocols including equipment decontamination
Support bat conservation charities funding WNS research
Report unusual bat mortality events to the National Bat Monitoring Programme