White Nose Syndrome
White Nose Syndrome Detected In Ontario Bats
McGuinty Government Continues To Monitor Hibernation Sites
The first case of bats with white nose syndrome in Ontario has been confirmed in
the Bancroft–Minden area. There is no known human health risk associated with this syndrome; however the syndrome has been linked to the deaths of a small number of bats in Ontario.
Minister of Natural Resources, Linda Jeffrey emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation ”Bats, like all wildlife, are an important part of our biodiversity. We understand the potential impact white nose syndrome can have on bat populations. As such we continue to monitor the condition and work with our partners in wildlife health to better understand its origins and minimize its impact.” said Jeffrey.
The Ministry of Natural Resources will continue working with the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre to monitor caves and abandoned mines where bats hibernate and identify any further cases. The public are asked: Not to enter non-commercial caves and abandoned mines where bats may be present, to help curb the spread of the syndrome. Not to touch bats, whether living or dead, as a small percentage carry rabies.
To report unusual bat deaths to the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre at 1-866-673-4781 1-866-673-4781
or the Natural Resources Information Centre at 1-800-667-1940 1-800-667-1940 .
