Flying foxes in NSW and Victoria face mass starvation amid food shortages
News Source
β’Tue, 13 Oct 2026 14:00:06 GMT
π° What Happened
Flying foxes are starving across New South Wales and parts of Victoria. Wildlife rescuers report a surge in calls about exhausted, emaciated adults and skeletal pups. Most are grey-headed flying foxes, a species listed as vulnerable under federal law. They normally feed on the blossoms and nectar of native trees.
Rescuers say the bats are crawling on the ground to eat unripe fallen fruit. Some are dropping out of trees because they are so weak. Many have died, including pups that were born too early.
π The Backstory
The rescue group Wires says the event is likely caused by habitat loss and a dry winter. Eucalyptus and other native trees flowered poorly this season. Female bats in their final month of pregnancy are sadly losing their young. Bats are also feeding during the day, away from the safety of their camp.
The shortages follow thousands of heat deaths this summer. The health department warned people not to touch bats after 43 people were scratched or bitten in two weeks.
π― Why It Matters
Flying foxes spread seeds and pollinate forests, so losing them hurts the environment. Sick bats can also pass on disease, so report them, don't touch them.
Flying foxes are starving across New South Wales and parts of Victoria. Wildlife rescuers report a surge in calls about exhausted, emaciated adults and skeletal pups. Most are grey-headed flying foxes, a species listed as vulnerable under federal law. They normally feed on the blossoms and nectar of native trees.
Rescuers say the bats are crawling on the ground to eat unripe fallen fruit. Some are dropping out of trees because they are so weak. Many have died, including pups that were born too early.
The rescue group Wires says the event is likely caused by habitat loss and a dry winter. Eucalyptus and other native trees flowered poorly this season. Female bats in their final month of pregnancy are sadly losing their young. Bats are also feeding during the day, away from the safety of their camp.
The shortages follow thousands of heat deaths this summer. The health department warned people not to touch bats after 43 people were scratched or bitten in two weeks.
Flying foxes spread seeds and pollinate forests, so losing them hurts the environment. Sick bats can also pass on disease, so report them, don't touch them.