INDYNR.COM
Residents have been reporting an increase in flying fox deaths across Richmond Valley LGA.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) said the deaths are likely because of a significant starvation and mass mortality event. This has led to more reports to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline about bats.
These reports include cases where a dog or cat has interacted with a bat and the owner or treating vet is seeking advice.
Most reports have come from coastal areas including the South Coast, Greater Sydney, the Mid North Coast, the Hunter and the Northern Rivers.
DPIRD advises people not to handle, feed or attempt to rescue flying foxes.
Flying foxes can carry diseases such as Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV), which can be transmitted through scratches or bites.
If the animal is alive but struggling, contact a licensed wildlife rescue organisation such as WIRES immediately on 1300 094 737.
If the flying fox is dead:
- Do not touch the animal directly.
- Use a shovel, tongs or another no-touch method to move or dispose of the carcass.
- Avoid any direct contact to prevent accidental scratches or exposure to disease.
Investigations to date have ruled out ABLV and H5 bird flu as causes of the deaths. However, pet owners should still consider the risk of ABLV if their dog or cat has interacted with a bat.
Advice for pet owners:
- Take steps to prevent direct contact between your pet and bats, for example by keeping your pet confined at night.
- If your pet has interacted with a bat, seek prompt advice from your local vet.
For more information, visit the DPIRD website.
Flying foxes play a vital role in the environment as pollinators and seed dispersers for native forests. They are an important part of our ecosystem and deserve our protection and respect.