Mexico's Vampire Bats May Drive Cross-Species CWD Spread, Study Finds

Researchers warn that common vampire bats in northern Mexico may already feed on CWD-infected cervids, potentially transmitting prions and enabling cross‑species spread as bat ranges expand. The study, which highlights a link between CWD-positive deer movements into Mexico and bat feeding opportunities, calls for ecological studies, prion transmission experiments, and expanded surveillance in overlap zones to proactively assess and mitigate risks to wildlife, livestock, and public health. Findings are preliminary and experts urge caution until more evidence is gathered.