The recurrent and extended periods of higher than normal temperatures this summer might be hard for us humans, but spare a thought for the threatened grey-headed flying foxes and other flying fox species calling Wingham Brush home. Typically, in these conditions, mass deaths can occur due to heat.
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While the flying fox population in the Wingham Brush maternity camp was dramatically down in numbers in the 2017/2018 breeding season, this year has shown a spike in the population, with numbers boosted by flying foxes coming down from Queensland, where the drought has affected their ability to find food.
The Flying Fox Loop through the maternity section of Wingham Brush has been closed for much of the season because of the increase in population and worries about the weather.
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) says the season has been relatively soft this year, until recently, with early rain, but the higher temperatures and less rain of late has meant the canopy has wilted and opened up, meaning less shade and more heat.
When extreme heat hits the flying foxes crawl down the trees to seek cooler temperatures. Sometimes this means they end up clumping together which causes more heat and no reprieve, ending in deaths.
As of Tuesday, January 22 NPWS estimates they have had to pick up around 20 dead bats from the floor of the forest, and the worries are that with weekend temperatures forecast to reach close to 40 degrees on the weekend, mass deaths could occur.
Years ago a sprinkler system was installed under the boardwalk in the Brush which, if implemented, would greatly help the bats in these conditions. However it hasn’t been used for some time. NPWS are looking into ways to repair the system so it may be used.
In the meantime, NPWS say they may utilise the local NSW Rural Fire Service crews to help out by spraying the canopy to cool down the animals, as has been done in other flying fox camps throughout Australia.
If you come across a flying fox needing help, DO NOT TOUCH the animal; always assume they are infectious. Call FAWNA’s 24 hour hotline on 6581 4141.
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