White Nose Syndrome (WNS) is the name given to a condition of cold-weather fungus that has led to the death of hundreds of thousands of bats in the northeastern United States. There are nearly 30 sites in at least four states identified since the winter of 2006-2007. Numerically, it has affected the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) most severely, but has had a more significant impact on the endangered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis).

From where it was first noticed in Howe's Cave, NY in 2006, it spread to many other NY caves and mines, and sites in VT, MA, and CT by the end of last winter. This winter, sites in PA, NJ, NH, WVA, and VA have now been confirmed, plus new sites in the previously affected states. Caving has been severely affected. Events, such as the large Crawlathon at Carter Caves, KY, were canceled. Virginia caving organizations and the state issued a call for a moratorium on caving.

Scientists still do not know the cause of WNS. We do know that bats are essentially starving to death.

We urge you to donate to the WNS Rapid Response Fund. The NSS has made a big difference by supporting research, but this can only continue with your financial support. For more info and to donate, please go here:

http://www.caves.org/WNS/index.htm