23 February 2021
Flying foxes are a native species, protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. They play an important role as pollinators of many of our native trees and shrubs and regularly migrant from site to site.
Southern Downs Regional Council has been closely monitoring a relatively stable flying fox roost at Cooks Park, Warwick since late last year.
A recent spike in the numbers of Little Red Flying Foxes at the park is however currently impacting vegetation along the Condamine River and limiting access to the adjacent footpath.
Little Reds are quite erratic in their movement patterns, but only tend to remain in an area for relatively short periods or until a food resource is depleted.
Council CEO, Dave Burges said: “The influx of Little Red Flying Foxes at Cooks Park will continue to be monitored by Council and it is anticipated the majority of the animals will remain in the area for six to eight weeks based on the known behaviour of the animals and previous experience.”
Residents are reminded that although Queensland Health considers the transmission risk of any virus or bacteria from flying foxes and bats to humans to be very low, it is not recommended to handle sick, injured or dead animals.
Council has cordoned off sections of Cooks Park and affected areas of the walking track will be closed while flying foxes occupy the roost site at current levels.
“It is important to remember that flying foxes are protected under State and Federal government legislation and there are significant penalties for harming them or unlawfully disturbing their roost sites,” said the CEO.
Council is asking residents to be patient whilst Council staff monitor the situation and thanks the community for their cooperation when using the park.