White-nose Syndrome in National Parks

The white fungus is clearly visible on the muzzle of this northern myotis bat.

USFWS

Bats in the National Park Service face serious risks from a disease called white-nose syndrome (WNS). Since 2006, this fungal disease has killed millions of bats in North America. In some hibernacula (locations where bats spend the winter, often caves or mines), over 90% of bats have died. Learn more about white-nose syndrome.

Throughout the United States, the National Park Service manages over 420 units. These parks contain 85 million acres and are home to over 45 species of bats. Also, nearly 1 in 4 parks have caves, and 1 in 3 have mines. Many of these caves and mines provide habitat for hibernating bats. Bats can also be found roosting in trees, cliffs, talus slopes, under bridges and in old buildings. All bats that hibernate, which is more than half of the bat species in North America, are at risk from WNS.

Parks in more than half of the United States are affected by the presence of WNS. The map below shows how widespread WNS has become since it was first introduced into North America. Many parks in these areas have likely experienced sharp declines in the bat population due to the disease, with some species becoming extremely rare or disappearing all together. Losing important insect predators and source of nutrients for underground ecosystems, like caves, so quickly may affect other organisms as well. For example, fewer bats mean more insects on the landscape, which can damage crops, forests and carry diseases that can affect people too. As the disease spreads, scientists are concerned about impacts to bats, ecosystems, and potentially our economy and human heath as well.

Where is WNS Now?

See a map of the current spread

White-Nose Syndrome.org provides an interactive map showing the current spread of the disease.

The National Park Service takes the threat of WNS seriously. Several representatives from the park service work with other agencies to develop a united response to WNS. Park officials observe bat populations, and they close sensitive caves to human entry. For other caves, rangers educate visitors about WNS. They also explain how humans may spread the fungus. Park staff show visitors how to help protect bats by properly cleaning their equipment and shoes before and after cave visits.