White Nose Syndrome

Reproduction: Pseudogymnaoascus destructans produces spores and hyphae and is therefore capable of asexual reproduction through spores and hyphal fragmentation.

Origin: Research as to the exact origins of White Nose Syndrome or Pseudogymnaoascus destructans (Pd), has been inconclusive. It is believed that the fungus originates from Eurasia, but specifics are unknown. In 2007, biologists first discovered sick and dying bats in a cave near Albany, New York. This became the first officially documented case of White Nose Syndrome in North America, however, there is evidence dating to 2006 from a group of cave-divers who photographed bats with white powder on their noses.

Habitat: Pd grows in cold, dark, damp places such as caves and mines, which bats usually inhabit.

Biologists believe that the most common vector of spread is by healthy bats coming into contact with infected ones, or by touching surfaces that have Pd spores on them. Human-mediated transmission is also likely, when humans enter a cave, mine, etc. where the fungus is present and continue onto a new cave where Pd had not previously been introduced.

Pd spores can stay alive on clothing, shoes, and equipment for extended periods of time, which creates the potential for the fungus to spread from cave to cave. Pd spores do not need bats to grow, so the fungus can live in a hibernation area even after the bats have left.

If visiting a cave or mine where bats are known to be living, basic decontamination is essential: wipe down equipment, cameras, bottles, flashlights, soles of boots, backpacks, or anything that may have been exposed to Pd with antifungal wipes.

Stay out of closed caves or areas where bats may be present.

Report dead or injured bats to conservation officers, forest services, or local wildlife authorities.

If you are located in the Sea to Sky, please refer to the Squamish River Watershed Society’s BatPack Resource Kit, available at the Squamish Public Library.