Grand Canyon Times

An Arizona bat has tested positive for Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats. This finding was made by biologists conducting surveillance at Fort Huachuca near Sierra Vista in June 2024. The cave myotis (Myotis velifer) exhibited wing abnormalities possibly linked to the disease. Additional testing found trace levels of Pd in four other bats, suggesting the presence of the fungus in the area.

Debbie Brewer, a wildlife biologist at Fort Huachuca, stated, “The Fort has been monitoring for Pd since 2014 using visual diagnostic methods and initiated sampling for Pd DNA in 2017.” She noted that despite previous low-level detections, "our 2024 high-level positive detection in cave myotis is highly concerning and should put other land managers in the Southwest on alert."

White-nose syndrome is named after the characteristic white fungal growth seen on infected bats. Cave myotis are particularly vulnerable due to their hibernation patterns, which create an ideal environment for fungal growth. Since its discovery in 2006, WNS has spread across 40 states and nine Canadian provinces, causing significant bat mortality. Although WNS does not threaten humans or pets directly, human activity can contribute to its spread.

Angie McIntire from the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) commented on the situation: “It’s concerning, but not surprising given how Pd has been spreading from state to state over the past several years.” She expressed concern about new threats facing bat populations.

With Pd confirmed in Arizona, AZGFD urges public assistance in monitoring WNS statewide. Signs of infection include unusual behavior such as inability to fly or resting on the ground or low walls. The public is advised not to handle live bats but to report sightings or incidents involving sick or dead bats via email with relevant details.

For over a decade, AZGFD and partners have conducted WNS surveillance. Samples are analyzed by Northern Arizona University's Pathogen and Microbiome Institute to determine Pd presence. Since 2019, trace amounts of Pd have been found during surveys across several counties including Mohave, Coconino, Yavapai, and Cochise.

Arizona hosts 29 bat species; around half hibernate during winter making them susceptible to WNS. Previously discovered in New Mexico and Texas, WNS affects cave myotis—a western species notably vulnerable in the Southwest.

Further information about white-nose syndrome can be accessed at https://www.whitenosesyndrome.org/.