Impending Vampire Bat Migration Threatens Southern US Livestock with Rabies

Vampire bats, known carriers of diseases like rabies, may soon expand their range into the southern United States due to human-induced global warming, according to a study. The research suggests that warming climates in southern regions of the US could attract vampire bats, potentially leading to the spread of diseases to wildlife, livestock, and even humans. The study highlights the historical northward movement of vampire bats in response to past climate change and the increase in rabies cases in Latin American countries. While the arrival of vampire bats alone may not be alarming, their ability to transmit diseases, particularly to livestock, poses a significant concern. The study emphasizes the need to track the movement of vampire bats and their potential impact on disease transmission.