Flying foxes are the key to keeping our forests.

Our local Grey-headed Flying-foxes pollinate trees and plants across the city so our forests stay alive!

Why cant we survive without Flying-foxes?

In pollinating forests, flying foxes also help to keep koalas alive, possums alive and all of those incredible little animals that we don't even have names for yet because the whole system is interlocked. Everything speaks to everything else.

In Shellharbour, we have our very own native Grey-headed Flying-Fox colony to protect and care for. They play a vital role in the ecosystem of the forest and growing fruits, vegetables, flowers and berries as well! Keep reading to find out more about this native endangered species to become its hero.

Why are Flying-foxes so important?

The biggest threats local flying foxes face are:

  • Habitat loss - caused by more houses, buildings or roads and fewer forests.
  • Food shortages - fewer trees means less food! Especially when there are fewer native trees which they prefer to eat from.
  • Heat Stress - climate change has seen temperatures across our nation get warmer and warmer. Days over 42 degrees celsius can be deadly to Flying-foxes.
  • People who don't like them will often target them or try to hurt them.

Even though many people think they can be dangerous, Flying-foxes are mostly harmless, especially their droppings! Just like us, they can get afraid and try to protect themselves by scratching or biting if trapped. If you see a Flying-fox out of its home, please don't touch it.

Contact a wildlife care organisation or local veterinarian if you find an injured or sick bat. Only people who are experienced in handling bats, wearing protective equipment, and with a current rabies vaccination should handle them.

If bitten or scratched by a bat, immediately wash the wound thoroughly for five minutes with soap and running water, and apply a virucidal antiseptic. Seek urgent medical attention regarding post-exposure treatment.

you can help by becoming a Bats Hero!

Step 1:

Learn all the important information about Grey-headed Flying-foxes!

The importance of flying foxes

Bat Fact Sheets - Ausbats

Flying-foxes - NSW Environment and Heritage

Grey-headed flying fox - NSW National Parks

Step 2:

Get your Bat Mask, colour or decorate it how you please.

Step 3:

Advocate for Flying-foxes with your friends and neighbours

Step 4:

Download the CAUL Urban Wildlife app. Available on Google Play or Apple Store

Start recording flying foxes in your area. You can upload photos or videos, record audio, and add information about their behaviour and what they are feeding on.

Step 5:

Sign up to plant trees that will feed and house our native colony.