Bats And Rockreation: Is Recreation A Vector Of Pseudogymnoascus Destructans At Devils Tower National Monument?

White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a disease that causes mass mortality in North American hibernating bat species due to infection by a fungal pathogen, Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd). Subterranean recreation has been linked to the spread of WNS, but research has yet to assess if aboveground recreation (e.g., rock climbing or scrambling) influences transmission. Two bats were diagnosed with WNS in 2021 during WNS surveillance efforts at Devils Tower National Monument (DTNM), Wyoming, a popular outdoor recreation destination. Our objectives for this research were to: 1) assess presence and 2) seasonal variation of Pd in the environment at DTNM; 3) analyze relationships between bat and human use of rocky features at DTNM; and 4) determine if rock climbing or scrambling contribute to the spread of Pd. Environmental samples were collected and tested for the presence of Pd via PCR from climbing routes, the boulder field surrounding the Tower, and sandstone outcrops approximately half a mile from the foot of the Tower during 2022 (Spring N=122; Fall N=360 ) and 2023 (Spring N=505; Fall N=181). One boulder field site tested positive for Pd in both spring and fall of 2023. However, Pd was not present in detectable amounts in all other field samples. When Pd was placed on items (N=785) commonly used for aboveground outdoor recreation (e.g., shoes, ropes, specialized climbing protection) and exposed to environmental conditions typically experienced at DTNM (temperature and direct light), the fungus could persist and be viable, though this decreased over 16-hours of continuous exposure. Further, Pd spores can be transferred from one surface to another. We conclude that aboveground recreation has the capacity to carry and transfer Pd spores, but further research is still needed to assess the degree to which outdoor recreationists are initially exposed before considering wildlife protection and outdoor recreation plans.