White-Nose Syndrome
Bats have a tremendous economic value to agriculture: bats provide over $3 billion in pest control, seed dispersal, and pollination. Since the winter of 2006-07, millions of North American bats have died from white-nose syndrome (WNS). As of September 2015, bats with WNS were confirmed in 26 states and five Canadian provinces.
Beyond Billions
Insect-eating bats provide pest-control services that save the U.S. agriculture industry over $3 billion per year. However, scientists warn that these valuable animals are at risk.
Where Is WNS?
View an interactive map of WNS spread through time or individual maps of states affected by WNS.
White-nose syndrome gets its name from the white fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, which infects the skin on the muzzle, ears, and wings of hibernating bats and was discovered by USGS scientists.
USGS scientists have developed novel tools and techniques for national WNS detection, surveillance (UV light) and research efforts. Our scientists are monitoring bat populations (NABat) and hibernating bat behavior in addition to assessing the impact of WNS on bat populations. USGS is now focusing on disease management strategies to reverse bat declines from WNS (oral vaccine, modification of bat hibernation sites, investigations of the bat skin microbiome).
Frequently Asked Questions about WNS
Does White-nose Syndrome pose a risk to human health?
What should cavers know and do in regard to White-nose Syndrome?