whitenose

Whitenose, commonly written whitenose or white-nose, refers to white-nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease that affects bats during hibernation. The condition is caused by the keratin-loving fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans. The fungus grows on exposed skin of the nose, ears, and wings, producing a white growth that is often visible on a bat in winter. Infected bats experience disrupted hibernation, increased arousal frequency, fat depletion, and a higher mortality rate, particularly in colonies in eastern North America.

Origins and spread: The disease was first documented in 2006 in a cave in upstate New York and has since spread across much of North America. Genetic analyses indicate the fungus is native to Eurasia, and its introduction into North America precipitated a severe epizootic. Transmission occurs mainly bat-to-bat within roosting sites, with spores able to linger on cave surfaces and clothing, equipment, or footwear, enabling human-facilitated spread.

Impact: White-nose syndrome has caused widespread declines in several bat species, notably the little brown bat and northern long-eared bat, with effects on insect control and ecosystem dynamics. Some populations have not recovered, and regional extirpations have occurred in affected species.

Response: Management emphasizes preventing spread through decontamination and cave-access protocols, habitat preservation, and research into treatments, vaccines, and probiotics. Monitoring surveys, rapid diagnostics, and collaborative conservation plans are ongoing to mitigate losses while natural populations adapt.