Test results recently confirmed that a bat in southern Arizona has tested positive for the fungus that causes a deadly disease that has devastated bat populations across the continent.
Biologists found the infected cave myotis bat at Fort Huachuca near Sierra Vista last June.
They had previously detected low levels of the fungus in the state, but this is the first confirmed case in a bat, raising concerns about it spreading white nose syndrome.
Since its discovery in 2006, white nose syndrome has spread to 40 states and killed millions of bats. A fungal growth that thrives in the cold, damp caves where many species hibernate appears on infected bats. It doesn’t pose a risk to people or pets, but hikers can accidentally spread spores.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is asking for reports of any unusual bat behavior like finding a bat on the ground or struggling to fly.
With a cure still in the works, experts say the best defense for now is prevention.
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