"Wind Cave’s 150 miles includes a series of lakes over 500 feet beneath the surface."
Credit: National Park Service
A fungal disease that’s fatal to bats is now showing up in Wind Cave National Park. White nose syndrome has killed millions of bats in North America. It’s not known to be a health risk to humans, domesticated animals, or other wildlife.
These are the first confirmed cases in Wind Cave. Park staff are asking visitors to stay out of closed caves and report any sick or dead bats. People should also avoid contact with the animals.
Bats use caves for winter hibernation. Staff protect them by avoiding the cave’s walk-in entrance. Wind Cave plans to resume limited tours in the spring with added precautions.