Population Trends of Myotis velifer (Cave Myotis) and Presence of Pseudogymnoascus destructans in Gypsum Caves of Western Oklahoma
Lynda Samanie Loucks1,*, Jason B. Shaw2, and William Caire1
1Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK 73034. 2School of Science and Kinesiology, University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, Chickasha, OK 73018. *Corresponding author.
Journal of North American Bat Research, Volume 3 (2025):1–14
Abstract
This study provides population estimates for overwintering Myotis velifer (Cave Myotis) in 5 gypsum caves in western Oklahoma, before and after the spread of Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the causative agent of white-nose syndrome (WNS). Population estimates of Cave Myotis in these caves over a 37-year period (1988–2024) varied from 33,384 bats in 1988 to 172,354 bats in 2005, with a mean of 100,254 individuals. We report the first detections of Pd-positive Cave Myotis in western Oklahoma hibernacula in Major, Washita, and Woodward counties. From 2018 to 2023, 19 of 457 (4.2%) Cave Myotis tested positive by qPCR for Pd, although WNS has not been confirmed in this species in Oklahoma. Despite detection of Pd, these populations of Cave Myotis have not drastically declined, and mortalities have not been reported. Annual fluctuations in population estimates at the 5 hibernacula are likely due to numerous factors, and these sites should continue to be monitored with the arrival of Pd in the region.
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Journal of North American Bat Research is valued by the academic, agency, NGO, and private-sector research community as a respected and trusted source for science related to all aspects of the biology, ecology, and conservation of bats, Order Chiroptera, and their habitats in North America, from Canada to Panama, and the West Indies (Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles). Manuscripts based on studies outside this region that provide information on species within the region may be considered at the Editor’s discretion.