Hinchinbrook Shire Council wishes to inform the community that the breeding season for both Black Flying Foxes and Grey-Headed Flying Foxes is approaching and is expected to continue through to Christmas.
Although Ingham has experienced a relatively low number of large flying fox influxes this year, neighbouring local government areas have not been as fortunate.
In response, Council remains committed to daily inspections and, where necessary, the ongoing dispersal of flying foxes from the urban footprint to discourage roosting in undesirable locations.
- Dispersal operations will continue daily as required between 4.30am and 7.30am as part of Council’s Flying Fox Management Program; and
- Residents are advised to secure all pets during these times for their safety and wellbeing.
REPORTING ROOSTING SITES:
Council encourages the community to report any flying foxes seen roosting in undesirable locations, particularly during daylight hours. This helps staff stay informed of new or potential roosting sites not currently covered by the program. Where possible, Council officers will provide advice and assistance to residents in affected zones, in line with available resources and relevant guidelines. Although dispersal needs are currently limited, conditions may change rapidly.
PRIVATE LANDOWNERS:
If flying foxes are roosting in trees on your property, you are permitted to use non-destructive disturbance techniques to discourage them from staying. These include:
- Garden sprinklers;
- Visual deterrents (e.g. imitation predators);
- Bright lighting; and
- Noise from approved commercial or improvised products.
Important: Do not attempt to touch flying foxes with your bare hands under any circumstances.
TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Visit Council’s website, Flying Fox Management page for further information or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s customer service centre on 4776 4600 to report sightings.
MARY-ANNE UREN