Flying Foxes
Flying-Foxes in the Burdekin Shire
Flying-foxes, commonly known as fruit bats, are large, nocturnal mammals that play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They are among Australia’s most important pollinators and seed dispersers, ensuring the survival of native forests and woodlands. Without flying-foxes, many tree species—including eucalypts and rainforest plants—would struggle to reproduce.
Our region is also home to a variety of smaller insect‑eating bats, which play an important role in controlling pests and supporting local ecosystems. If bats are roosting in or around homes or buildings, residents are encouraged to use humane deterrents and exclusion methods once bats have left, and to seek informed guidance before taking action. Helpful, species‑appropriate advice is available from the Australasian Bat Society’s “Bats in Buildings” FAQs
Species Found in the Burdekin
Two species are commonly found in the Burdekin Shire, they are:
Black Flying-Fox (Pteropus alecto)
- Jet black fur, sometimes with reddish-brown patches; wingspan up to 1 metre.
- Largest mainland species; weighs 500–1000 g.
- Found in coastal areas, mangroves, and eucalypt forests.
- Breeds in autumn; single pup born late winter to spring.
Little Red Flying-Fox (Pteropus scapulatus)
- Reddish-brown fur; smaller (200–600 g).
- Highly nomadic; often arrives in large seasonal groups.
- Breeds in April–May.
Both species are listed as Least Concern in Queensland but remain protected wildlife under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
Legal Protection
Flying-foxes are protected native species under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Queensland). This means:
- It is illegal to kill, harm, or interfere with flying-foxes or their roosts without authorisation.
- Section 88C of the Act specifically prohibits destroying or disturbing a roost, or driving away flying-foxes, unless authorised under the Act. Penalties can include fines of up to 1,000 penalty units or 1 year’s imprisonment for serious breaches. [burdekin.qld.gov.au]
- Local governments, including Burdekin Shire Council, have limited authority to manage roosts within designated Urban Flying-Fox Management Areas (UFFMA) using non-lethal methods only, in accordance with the Code of Practice—Ecologically Sustainable Management of Flying-Fox Roosts. [burdekin.qld.gov.au]
Why Flying-Foxes Matter
- Pollination: They transfer pollen between flowering trees, supporting biodiversity.
- Seed Dispersal: They spread seeds over long distances, regenerating forests.
- Ecosystem Health: Their activities sustain habitats for countless other species.
Council Management
Burdekin Shire Council manages flying-fox roosts under its Flying-Fox Management Policy, which aligns with Queensland Government guidelines. Approved methods include:
- Visual and audible deterrents (lights, noise)
- Habitat modification (tree trimming to create buffers)
All actions comply with the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the Flying-Fox Roost Management Code of Practice. [burdekin.qld.gov.au]
Long-Term Management Plan
Burdekin Shire Council has developed a comprehensive Flying-Fox Roost Management Plan to guide both short-term and long-term strategies. This plan focuses on:
- Minimising conflict between humans and flying foxes
- Supporting private landholders with lawful deterrent options
- Improving community awareness and engagement
- Conserving flying-fox populations and the critical ecosystem services they provide
The plan includes monitoring programs, scalable responses based on population thresholds, and ongoing collaboration with State and Federal agencies for funding and compliance. [burdekinlife.com]
What You Can Do
By taking safe and respectful measures, our community can help protect both people and these valuable native species. Residents can do this by:
- Using non-destructive deterrents (sprinklers, lights, noise) on private property.
- Reporting large roosts to Council.
- Never attempting to handle bats, instead, contact a licensed wildlife carer or qualified professional for assistance.
For further information or to report flying-fox related issues, please call Council's Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.
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