Parks Canada teams are actively treating bat caves in Alberta to combat a severe fungal infection known as white-nose syndrome. Biologist Nina Veselka reported alarming observations at a Jasper National Park cave, where weak bats succumbed after falling from the walls.
“This could lead to local extinction,” said Veselka. The fungus, thriving in damp, cold environments, infects bats, causing fatigue and premature awakening from hibernation, resulting in depletion of vital fat reserves.
The disease can devastate bat populations, with potential mortality rates reaching up to 98%. While harmless to humans, the spread of white-nose syndrome puts Alberta's entire hibernating bat population at severe risk.