Chapter 4 Habitats
influence on the ambient and substrate temperatures inside caves which in turn will influence body temperature and metabolic rates of hibernating bats (McNab 1974; Humphrey 1978; Martin et al. 2006) . Human activities alter the microclimate, biogeochemistry, and balance of organic matter in caves, which also impact microbial communities (Saiz-Jimenez 2012) . Several research articles have reported on declines of cave-obligate bats caused by human disturbance at caves ( Martin et al. 2006 ). In many states, and throughout the world, many caves have been developed into tourist attractions, often with lighting, tours, gates, etc. All these activities have resulted in degraded habitat conditions for cave-dwelling animals as well as disrupted normal behavior patterns, effectively eliminating habitat for many cave animals. The Southern Blue Ridge Ecoregional Conservation Plan noted recreation, including developed tourist caves and recreational caving/exploration, to be the greatest threat to cave and cave species conservation (TNC and SAFC 2000) . Climate Change. Seasonal variations in surface climate, entrance characteristics (Tuttle and Stevenson 1978) and physical structure of the cave itself (Twente 1955; Raesly and Gates 1987) are thought to have the greatest impact on climate of cave interiors (Martin et al. 2006) . Changes in precipitation may contribute to variation in moisture and temperature but may not be drastic. Drought conditions cause moisture gradients in caves and mines to change, especially those with groundwater seepage contributing to the humidity level. Warmer temperatures in caves and mines will change the suitability of this habitat for species adapted to historic microclimate conditions. 4.4.2.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats Comparing climate change to other ecosystem threats can help define short- and long-term conservation actions and recommendations. While climate change is not the most severe threat, a combination of synergistic effects with other existing conditions could stress these systems to the point where several species are unable to persist. The Southern Blue Ridge Ecoregional Conservation Plan identifies recreation as the greatest threat to cave and cave species conservation (TNC and SAFC 2000) . Communities and species associated with cave and mine habitats are likely to be affected by changes in temperature and mild winters associated with climate change. Table 4.4.2-1 summarizes the comparison of climate change with other existing threats.
Table 4.4.2-1 Climate change compared to other threats to caves and mines. Threat Rank Order Comments
White-nose Syndrome (WNS) has devastated bat populations roosting in caves in the northeastern states, including North Carolina, over the past 5-10 years. Several bat species have declined in the state by over 95% due to the death caused by this fungus.
Pathogens/Disease 1
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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