A deadly fungus that has caused severe damage to bat populations across North America is spreading in Alberta. White-nose syndrome has been identified in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta for the first time, indicating a significant expansion of the disease since its initial detection in the province in 2024.
Since 2006, over 6.7 million bats have perished from the infection in North America, as reported by the Center for Biological Diversity. The disease is triggered by a fungus that affects bats’ skin during hibernation, disrupting their sleep and leading to starvation, dehydration, and eventual death.
The fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome was first found in Alberta in 2022, with the confirmation of disease symptoms coming two years later. Recent surveys by the provincial government and Wildlife Conservation Society Canada discovered evidence of the syndrome in three caves in the Rockies, including Camodin and Wapiabi, both closed to the public since 2010 to prevent the spread of the disease.
Lisa Wilkinson, a provincial bat specialist, expressed concern over the situation, noting an 80% decline in bat populations in a recent survey. The disease has affected bats in every Canadian province except British Columbia, with at least 40 U.S. states also reporting infections.
Efforts to combat the disease include the use of probiotics, with promising results showing reduced fungus levels on bats. While complete eradication seems unlikely, the ongoing probiotic applications aim to mitigate the disease’s impact on bat populations.
Among the vulnerable bat species are the little brown bat and northern myotis, both considered endangered by the federal government. Researchers emphasize the importance of public involvement in reporting bat sightings to help conservation efforts and monitor populations in the face of white-nose syndrome.
The conservation efforts also aim to raise awareness and dispel myths about bats, promoting a positive perception to garner support for their protection and preservation.