White-nose syndrome, caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, has killed millions of North American bats. Prevention of UK spread and research into interventions are critical welfare priorities.
Bats dying from white-nose syndrome are roused repeatedly from hibernation, depleting fat reserves until they die of starvation before spring. This is a prolonged welfare suffering affecting millions of individuals. Preventing spread to UK populations through biosecurity and developing effective treatments represents an enormous potential welfare benefit for bat populations.