Flying Fox update

We are starting to see flying foxes arrive in the region and within the township of Mundubbera so start preparing your backyards now…

The following actions can reduce health risks related to flying-foxes: Do not leave your washing out at night—bring it in before dusk; garage or cover your vehicles to ensure flying-fox faeces doesn’t affect them; use a pool cover to reduce the risk of contamination; cover or place outdoor furniture under shelter at night; try not to disturb them—disturbing them only makes them noisier and heightens the odours; prune trees and reduce grassy understorey in your backyard to reduce the entry of flying-foxes; and cover all water sources to ensure faeces can not be consumed by domestic animals or humans.

Research has shown people do not catch Hendra Virus from flying-foxes, in fact a human can only catch Hendra from having close contact with an infected horse. Only a small percentage of flying-foxes are infected with a disease called Australian Bat Lyssavirus.  The virus can only be transmitted to humans by bites or scratches from infected bats or saliva into an open wound. If you are scratched or bitten seek medical attention immediately.

Council is currently monitoring the known urban flying fox roosts and may undertake dispersal activities should the need arise.

Should flying foxes attempt to roost in trees on your property, Council advises residents that they can undertake non harmful activities to detract them, such as making a loud noise with pots and pans, lawnmowers and so on. This is best attempted early in the morning when flying foxes are returning from feeding during the night.  Under no circumstances should dispersal be undertaken during extreme temperatures which are expected this weekend.

Information on flying foxes can be viewed on the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection website.

For further information or queries, please contact Council’s Environmental Services Department on 1300 696 272 (1300 MY NBRC).