White-nose syndrome is an emergent disease of hibernating bats that has spread from the northeastern to the central United States at an alarming rate. Since the winter of 2007-2008, millions of insect-eating bats in at least 37 states and seven Canadian provinces have died from this devastating disease. The disease is named for the white fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, that infects skin of the muzzle, ears, and wings of hibernating bats. The fungus thrives in cold and humid conditions characteristic of caves and mines used by bats.

Scientists believe that White-nose syndrome is transmitted primarily from bat to bat. There is a strong possibility that it may also be transmitted by humans inadvertently carrying the fungus from cave to cave on their clothing and gear.

Bats affected with White-nose syndrome don't always have obvious fungal growth, but they might behave strangely inside and outside of the cave where they hibernate during the winter.

White-nose Syndrome mostly affects hibernating bats. More than half of the 47 bat species living in the United States and Canada hibernate to survive the winter.

Twelve bat species, including two endangered species and one threatened species, have been confirmed with white-nose syndrome in North America. The causative fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), has been found on an additional six species, including two endangered species, without confirmation of the disease.

Thousands of people have visited affected caves and mines since White-nose Syndrome (WNS) was first observed, and there have been no reported human illnesses attributable to WNS. We are still learning about WNS, but we know of no risk to humans from contact with WNS-affected bats. However, we urge taking precautions and not exposing yourself to WNS. Biologists and researchers use protective clothing when entering caves or handling bats.

In response to White-nose Syndrome (WNS), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and individual states request that cavers observe all cave closures and advisories, and avoid caves, mines or passages containing hibernating bats to minimize disturbance to them. The Service asks that cavers and cave visitors stay out of all caves in the affected states and adjoining states to help slow the potential spread of WNS. Local and national cave groups have also posted information and cave advisories on their websites.

If you find a dead or dying bat:

• Contact your state wildlife agency, file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations.
• It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a federally protected species. Photograph the potentially affected bats (including close-up shots, if possible) and send the photograph and a report to a state or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service contact (above).
• If you need to dispose of a dead bat found on your property, pick it up with a plastic bag over your hand or use disposable gloves. Place both the bat and the bag into another plastic bag, spray with disinfectant, close the bag securely, and dispose of it with your garbage. Thoroughly wash your hands and any clothing that comes into contact with the bat.
• If you see a band on the wing of a bat or a small device with an antenna on the back of a bat (living or dead), contact your state wildlife agency or your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office, as these are tools biologists use to identify individual bats.

Many caves are off limits because of white-nose syndrome, a disease that has killed millions of hibernating bats. The Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service request that cavers observe all cave closures and advisories, and avoid caves, mines or passages containing hibernating bats to minimize disturbance.

Check with the local ranger district on the status of caves before exploring.

Exploring caves that are open can be fun and exciting, but can also be fraught with peril. Caves are inherently dangerous environments, with many hazards we are not accustomed to dealing with given our above ground experience. Preparation will help make your exploration more enjoyable.

Never go caving alone

• A caving group should includes a minimum of four people and a maximum of eight.
• Children should never explore caves without an adult.
• If someone gets hurt, at least one person should stay with the injured person while two others go for help.
• Read all the information you can on a cave before going exploring. It will help you plan your day.

Tell someone where you're going and when you will return

• As with all activities in the great outdoors, make a plan, share that with a responsible adult who is not going with you, then stick to it.

• If your group has not returned within six hours after the designated time, that responsible adult should call the Forest Service or the local Sheriff's Office to report that you have not returned as designated.

Dress for success

• Wear sturdy, ankle high boots to support your ankles, gloves for hand protection, and knee and elbow pads for crawling.

• Wear layers of clothing so you can moderate your body temperature. Remember that cotton absorbs cold and water.
• Wear a hard hat with a chin strap and attached light. Low ceilings are common even in short, easy caves.
• If you plan to be part of a guided tour, check the forest or ranger district for information about appropriate clothing

Carry the right equipment

• Carry at least three light sources and enough spare parts, such as batteries, for each person. One light should be attached to your helmet to free up your hands and another should be a waterproof flashlight.

• Candles and matches in a sturdy, waterproof case.
• Carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it.

Don't forget food and water

• Don't drink cave water. Bring enough water that it will last beyond the estimated length of your expedition.
• Pack high-energy foods that can survive the tight confines of a cave.
• Remember to never leave your trash in a cave. Take out what you bring in.

Move with care

• Do not run or jump in a cave. Plan each move carefully.
• Do not enter a cave when there is rain predicted in the area. Cave often flood suddenly.
• Never touch or damage stalactites or other cave formations. These take thousands of years to grow.

Look, don’t touch

• Remember the Leave No Trace principles apply to caves, too.
• Take photos and leave footprints only when necessary.

Remember: You are responsible for your safety and for the safety of those around you.