25/12/2024
It’s not stopping. Flying Fox Paralysis Syndrome (FFPS) is spreading, and more Flying Fox camps (roosts) are becoming affected. The same is true for Lorikeets, with hundreds now in care. We’re receiving calls about other camps going down, but we only have so many people, so many hours, and so much money to rehabilitate these suffering animals.
Many have asked what’s causing this, and the truth is: we don’t know. No one does. What we do know is that this syndrome has occurred over the past five years, and this year is by far the worst. It often follows heavy rainfall, and both Flying Foxes and Lorikeets share the same diet—pollen and fruit. We believe FFPS is not contagious to other animals, as it hasn’t transferred to other bats or birds in care for different reasons.
For weeks now, we’ve been working tirelessly. Our volunteers scour camps at night, picking up affected bats and their orphans—so many orphans. Volunteers are on the road for up to 12 hours a day (sometimes even longer), transporting affected bats and their babies to receive veterinary care. On-site, we triage patients, providing emergency care like subcutaneous fluids, eye lubricants, and glucose—anything we can do to give them a fighting chance and alleviate their suffering.
💔 It’s soul-destroying to witness so many animals in distress. This crisis is taking a toll on the mental health of our rescuers, transporters, hotline operators, vet staff, and even members of the public who encounter these suffering animals. It also affects the families of our rehabilitators, who sacrifice time with loved ones to save those they can. We’re exhausted, drained, and heartbroken. And it’s only getting worse. 🌧️
In the comments section of this post, I’ll share a video of a Black Flying Fox affected by FFPS. It’s confronting and may be upsetting to watch. The bat is struggling to breathe and unable to move, yet it remains aware of its surroundings—a truly horrifying sight. Please only view it if you feel prepared, but know that this is what our team faces every day.
We’re grateful that local councils are starting to put up signs around Flying Fox camps, warning of this wildlife emergency. We’re also deeply thankful for the generosity you’ve shown—through donations, sharing our posts, and offering words of comfort. But this isn’t stopping, and every Flying Fox or orphan we bring in requires months of intensive care.
✨ We’re asking, begging, for your help. Without your support, we cannot continue this work. Please donate so we can keep fighting for these animals and their chance at life. It’s not in our DNA to walk away from their suffering. With your help, we can continue to make a difference. ✨
Donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible:
🦇 PayPal: paypal.me/batsqld
💳 Bank Transfer:
Account Name: Bats QLD
Account Number: 228422
BSB: 034 182
From all of us at Bats QLD, thank you for your kindness and generosity. 💕
Important: If you find a bat, do not touch it. Call a rescue expert immediately.
Providing excellent care and a range of veterinary services.
