Fungus causing white-nose syndrome detected on Arizona bat

PHOENIX — A bat sampled by biologists at Fort Huachuca near Sierra Vista in 2024 tested positive for the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome (WNS) disease in bats.

The bat, a cave myotis, was found to have the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans after researchers conducting surveillance noticed suspicious wing abnormalities that might be related to the disease. Four additional bats, including two other species, were determined to have trace levels of the fungus, which tells researchers that the fungus is present in the area.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department along with agency researchers and partners have conducted surveillance for WNS for more than a decade.

Samples retrieved are examined by the Pathogen and Microbiome Institute at Northern Arizona University.

Trace amounts of the fungus have been detected in at least four Arizona counties — Mohave, Coconino, Yavapai, and Cochise. Between 2021 and 2024 trace amounts of the fungus were found on eight bats.

WNS has been previously discovered in New Mexico and Texas, where it is impacting cave myotis, a western species that may be particularly susceptible to the disease in the Southwest.

“Though not unexpected, our 2024 high-level positive detection in cave myotis is highly concerning and should put other land managers in the Southwest on alert that habitat protections for this and other species of bat are warranted,” Fort Huachuca wildlife biologist Debbie Brewer said in a press release.

What is white-nose syndrome?

WNS gets its somewhat cute name for the not-so-cute fuzzy white growth of fungus that appears on infected bats.

Cave myotis are more vulnerable to the fungus because of their choice of hibernation is in cold, damp caves where the fungus can thrive and grow.

WNS was discovered in 2006 and has been found in 40 states and also nine Canadian provinces. While WNS poses no threat to humans or pets, it has killed millions of bats nationwide.

“It’s concerning, but not surprising given how Pd has been spreading from state to state over the past several years,” Angie McIntire, state bat specialist at AZGFD, said. “This disease did not exist when I first began working with bats. To see new threats to our bat populations like this is disturbing.”

How to help

AZGFD suggests that the public can help by keeping an eye on bats, especially those exhibiting unusual behavior.

Bats infected with WNS might appear unable to fly and be found on the ground or low on a wall.

AZGFD noted to not handle live bats and report any observations or sick, injured or dead bats to to bats@azgfd.gov. Include location, contact information and a photo, if possible, along with any other useful information.

For additional information about white-nose syndrome in bats, visit whitenosesyndrome.org.

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