Council monitors flying fox health as temperatures soar

Published 2:29pm 4 December 2020

Council monitors flying fox health as temperatures soar
Words by Jodie Powell

With the mercury soaring this weekend, Moreton Bay Regional Council is ready to respond to heat-stressed wildlife and is already monitoring flying fox colonies.

Mayor Peter Flannery says heat and humidity can be deadly for flying foxes and if that happens at the weekend, parks with large colonies may be closed in the interests of public health and safety.

He reminded people not to touch wildlife, and instead report issues to the relevant agencies.

Councill staff on standby

“Our crews will be keeping an eye on the wellbeing of flying foxes during the heatwave,” he says.

“I want to thank residents in advance for keeping their eye out for any heat-stressed flying foxes but not going near them.

“The best thing you can do is report sick or injured animals to the RSPCA.”

Mayor Flannery says it is important not to touch flying foxes because they can scratch or bite.

Report wildlife issues

“I also want to thank the wildlife groups for volunteering to respond to these reports and helping take care of distressed flying foxes.”

To report a large number of deceased flying foxes, phone Council on 3205 0555.

To report colonies of flying foxes that appear heat-stressed, phone 1300 ANIMAL.

If you are bitten or scratched by a flying fox, seek immediate attention from your nearest medical facility or call Queensland Health on 13 432 584.

Find more local news here.

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