Deadly fungus that wiped out bat populations detected in British Columbia

A disease-causing fungus that wiped out bat populations in North America has been detected in British Columbia, according to the province.

A statement released Monday says the fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome in bats has been found in bat guano — or bat feces — in the Grand Forks area of ​​the Kootenays.

“THE [ministry] is working with multiple partners to implement enhanced disease surveillance, as well as to reduce threats to bat habitat,” reads the statement from the Department of Water, Lands and Stewardship. Resource.

“Because there is currently no proven prevention or treatment for white-nose syndrome, the best approach to bat conservation is the reduction of other threats to support healthy and resilient bat populations in the face of this disease.”

White-nose syndrome starves bats by interrupting their hibernation, which wastes the energy they need to overwinter.

The disease spreads quickly as bats huddle together for warmth.

In a cave in eastern Canada, 98% of bats died. In Montana, where the disease has been present for nearly 20 years, bat populations have declined by about 90%.

White nose syndrome first appeared in North America in 2006 in New York State, likely by sea. It is mainly spread from bat to bat, although humans can play a role by carrying spores on their clothing or equipment.

The province said staff have been testing for the disease in British Columbia since the fungus reached the west coast of the United States in 2016.

The fungus does not affect humans, but the province said anyone who finds a sick or dead bat should report it and avoid touching the animal with your bare hands.