Flying fox relocation to recommence

Council has engaged Biodiversity Australia, a specialist in environmental management and wildlife ecology, to recommence the dispersal of the black flying fox colony that temporarily relocated between Holliman and Harte Streets.

Following the successful dispersal of the flying fox colony from Lissner Park in October last year, a number of black flying fox began forming a creche in the residential area and, following expert advice, dispersal at this location was suspended due to the risk of pup abandonment being too great to ethically continue.

Recent assessments of the creche have determined that the flying fox pups are now capable of sustained flight and relocation attempts will commence on Tuesday, 31 January 2023 for approximately two weeks.

Mayor Frank Beveridge said Council was very pleased with the relocation efforts so far, especially the successful relocation from Lissner Park, and hope that this next phase will also go well.

“Council is appreciative of impacted residents for their patience and understanding over the past few months and I am sure they will be pleased to hear the news,” said Mayor Beveridge.

Biodiversity Australia will be highly mobile during the dispersal, with nearby residents likely to be impacted by a combination of loud noise, smoke, and lighting activities between the hours of 4am – 8am each day and pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals inside during these hours.

There may also be some initial traffic disruption in the vicinity and road users are asked to follow the directions of traffic controllers and/or signage.

Council’s dedicated team will also be active to help ensure the flying foxes do not try to relocate within urban areas and have successfully been monitoring Lissner Park and surrounds over recent months with great success.

“Our priority is the health and safety of our community and visitors, and we need everyone to support this Council initiative.

“After years of failed attempts at moving the large number of flying fox from our urban areas, it appears that recent relocation efforts will be effective and continued support from the public is essential to ensure success,” continued Mayor Beveridge.

Please do not disturb any flying foxes that may be temporarily roosting in trees on your property during the dispersal period.

A dedicated Flying Fox phone number (1300 319 954) will be available for the public during the dispersal period; however, we ask that this number is only used to report flying foxes that are present on properties or that are in any unsuitable locations such as schools, health or aged care, airport or private properties.

This number should also be used to report flying fox that may be injured and Biodiversity Australia will ensure the animal receives care. 

For more information head to www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/community/flyingfox