Deadly Disease Found in Bats at San Juan National Park: Understanding White-Nose Syndrome
Audubon Zoo New Orleans curator Liz Wilson joined FOX Weather on Sunday to explain how bats play an important role in our ecosystem.
The crucial role bats play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem cannot be overstated. However, a recent discovery at San Juan Island National Park in Washington state has raised concerns among wildlife experts and conservationists.
Discovery of White-Nose Syndrome
Officials with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) have detected the presence of a fungus that causes White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) in three bats at the park. WNS is a fungal disease that can kill hibernating bats, according to the National Park Service. The fungus, named Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), likely originated in Asia or Europe, with the first positive case detected in Washington back in 2016.
Laboratory tests conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey detected the presence of the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome.
The Impact of White-Nose Syndrome
Since its first detection in the U.S. in New York in 2006, WNS has spread through most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, killing millions of bats. Although the disease does not cause harm to humans, it can still spread, highlighting the need for caution and preventive measures.
Protecting Bats and Preventing the Spread of WNS
To help protect bats, park biologists suggest reporting any dead or injured bats found to park personnel. It is also crucial to never touch or pick up a bat, as a small percentage of bats can be infected with other dangerous diseases, such as rabies. Additionally, decontaminating gear and clothing worn after visiting a cave or bat habitat can reduce the chances of spreading the Pd fungus.
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 16: A fruit bat hangs from a rope during a behind the scenes interactive live stream from the Oakland Zoo on April 16, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Given that the park is home to 10 out of 14 known species in the state of Washington, a Pd infection would raise significant concerns. Bats play a vital role in a healthy ecosystem, and their decline could have far-reaching implications.
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