A spectacular natural phenomenon is underway at North Avoca with 20,000 flying foxes taking residence in a massive eucalypt (swamp mahogany, melaleuca) tree.
Marina Tretiach, who is monitoring the colony for Wildlife Arc, said the flying foxes were being checked on a daily basis where possible.
She said this was very important, particularly when the babies are being born and when they first start flying, as they can get into trouble.
Tretiach said in light of the overwhelming numbers of animals killed in the wake of the 2019-2020 drought and bushfires, it was heartening to see such robust numbers of these critical native animals returning at last to our relatively untouched coastal precinct.
“Possibly they’re having a last hurrah before they make their way up north for winter,” she said.
“Members of the public are reminded that they must not harass these animals that are protected and vulnerable to extinction, for the short time they are in residence at the site.
“In the event that they see an animal in distress or on the ground, they must not attempt to touch it, but should call their local wildlife rescue group including Wildlife ARC (4325 0666) or WIRES (1300 094 737) ASAP.”
Source:
Media release, May 12
Marina Tretiach