White-nose Syndrome Detected in Idaho Bats for First Time

State wildlife officials confirm deadly fungal disease in three bats from northern Idaho

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:50am

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The Idaho Department of Fish and Game has confirmed the first cases of white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungal disease that has devastated bat populations across North America, in three bats collected from northern Idaho in 2025 and 2026. The disease does not pose a risk to humans, pets, or livestock, but is a significant threat to bat populations in the state.

Why it matters

Bats play a crucial role in Idaho's ecosystems by consuming insects, including many agricultural pests. A 2011 study estimated bats provide about $313 million in pest-control benefits to Idaho agriculture each year. The arrival of white-nose syndrome in Idaho could have serious ecological and economic consequences if it spreads and decimates the state's bat populations.

The details

Laboratory confirmation of white-nose syndrome came from the U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center. The infected bats included a little brown myotis and a long-eared myotis collected in Bonner County in 2025, along with a bat collected in Kootenai County in 2026 that is awaiting final species confirmation. White-nose syndrome is a fungal disease that affects hibernating bats and has killed millions across North America since it was first detected in 2006. The fungus can spread through contact between bats and may also be carried on contaminated clothing, footwear or equipment.

  • In 2025, bats were collected in Bonner County that tested positive for white-nose syndrome.
  • In 2026, a bat was collected in Kootenai County that also tested positive for white-nose syndrome.

The players

Idaho Department of Fish and Game

The state wildlife agency that confirmed the first cases of white-nose syndrome in Idaho bats.

U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center

The laboratory that provided the confirmation of white-nose syndrome in the Idaho bats.

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What’s next

Fish and Game has monitored for the disease since 2009 and says it is evaluating tools, including potential vaccines, to reduce impacts on bat populations.

The takeaway

The arrival of white-nose syndrome in Idaho is a significant threat to the state's bat populations, which play a crucial role in controlling agricultural pests and maintaining healthy ecosystems. State wildlife officials will need to closely monitor the spread of the disease and explore ways to protect vulnerable bat colonies.