The viability of washington BAT populations continues to be at risk from effects of white-nose syndrome (WNS)

In 2016, WNS was first detected in washington, and recent records indicate increasing prevalence in counties already confirmed with WNS as well as being confirmed in several new counties in 2024 and 2025. Additionally, summer counts indicate localized reduction in maternity colony sizes in areas where WNS has been documented for several years. Also, two mortality events (30 bats) have been documented in washington, to date, that involve the yuma myotis. With this limited information, IT is reasonable to assume that WNS may have a detrimental impact among some species in washington. If awarded, this funding will allow washington department of fish and wildlife to continue to make comprehensive strides in tracking WNS as IT spreads within washington and monitoring BAT populations. Further, such efforts will provide information for data-driven management actions aimed at protecting washingtons bats. We propose to, 1) participate in and provide support to U.S. Geological survey national wildlife health center research project involving vaccinating bats against WNS, 2)conduct active surveillance at BAT colonies throughout washington to track distribution of WNS that is in concert with the national and state WNS disease surveillance program, 3) conduct passive surveillance for WNS by collaborating with wildlife rehabilitators, washington department of health (DOH), wind energy facilities, and the public, 4) provide opportunities to tribal, state and other organization biologists in BAT survey techniques and WNS surveillance, and 5) participate in the WNS national workshop and other regional or national BAT meetings.