White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a devastating disease that affects hibernating bats. It is caused by a fungus called Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), which thrives in the cool, humid conditions of caves and mines where bats hibernate. WNS has killed millions of bats in North America since it was first discovered in 2006, and it is continuing to spread.

Here are some ways to help stop the spread of WNS:

* Avoid disturbing hibernating bats. Bats should not be disturbed during hibernation, as this can stress them and make them more susceptible to WNS. If you find a cave or mine where bats are hibernating, please do not enter.

* Decontaminate your gear before and after entering a cave or mine. Pd can be spread on clothing and equipment, so it is important to decontaminate your gear before and after entering a cave or mine. You can decontaminate your gear by wiping it down with a disinfectant such as bleach or rubbing alcohol.

* Educate yourself and others about WNS. The more people who know about WNS, the more we can do to stop its spread. Please share information about WNS with your friends, family, and colleagues.

By taking these simple steps, you can help to stop the spread of WNS and protect our bat populations.

Additional information:

* The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has a website dedicated to WNS. This website provides information about the disease, its impacts, and what is being done to stop it.

* The National Speleological Society has also developed a website about WNS. This website provides information about how to decontaminate your gear and how to avoid disturbing hibernating bats.