White-Nose Bat Fungus Reaches Oregon: First Detection Confirmed

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Oregon wildlife officials have confirmed the first-ever detection of deadly white-nose syndrome fungus in bat droppings found at a Lewis and Clark National Historical Park bus shelter.

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The culprit, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, causes a deadly white growth on bats' muzzles, ears and wings - but how did it reach the Pacific Northwest?

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White-nose syndrome has already killed millions of North American bats since 2007, with some species seeing population declines over 90% in eastern regions.

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The fungus forces hibernating bats to wake frequently during winter, rapidly burning through critical fat reserves and leading to starvation or dehydration.

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Though the fungus doesn't affect humans, people can accidentally transport fungal spores on clothing and gear after visiting caves or bat habitats.

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What happens when we lose bats? In the U.S. alone, bats save farmers at least $3.7 billion yearly by consuming crop-destroying insects.

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Counties affected by white-nose syndrome saw agricultural land values drop by $2.84 per acre and lost over 1,100 acres of farmland.

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Oregon's multi-agency team has monitored for this fungus since 2011 - yet despite these efforts, the deadly pathogen has arrived.

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Scientists are developing promising treatments including vaccines, UV-C light exposure, temperature regulation, and antimicrobial gases.

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You can help protect Oregon's bats by cleaning gear after visiting caves, using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide wipes, and never touching bats even if they appear sick.

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