2024-09-07
The ACT Government has today released the Native Species Conservation Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, which outlines strategic actions to help protect the species in the Territory.
Minister for the Environment, Parks and Land Management Rebecca Vassarotti said the plan has been prepared under to the Nature Conservation Act 2014 using the expertise of ecologists, ACT Wildlife carers and bat experts.
“The Grey-headed Flying-fox is one of the largest bats in the world, providing an important role in pollination and seed dispersal across native forests and woodlands,” Minister Vassarotti said.
“Currently, they have a maternal colony at Commonwealth Park. They need our help as they are vulnerable to extinction due to decreased habitat, death through backyard netting and powerlines as well as from the effects of climate change.
“The Native Species Conservation Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox aims to protect and enhance the local habitat for the species, track over time the size of the bats’ population, and minimise their mass mortality due to extreme weather events.
“The bats should be able to co-exist harmoniously with the ACT community and that requires increased awareness and education, so we can be well prepared if the species migrates into Territory land.
“We have already put restrictions in place in the ACT for non-wildlife friendly netting to keep wildlife, including the Grey-headed Flying Fox, safe when visiting gardens.
“The conservation plan will help continue to increase community awareness about why the Grey-headed Flying Fox must be protected and reduce the number of bats trapped in household netting.
“I look forward to putting this plan into action so Canberra can mitigate potential future threats and conserve these vital native species in our environment,” said Minister Vassarotti.
For more information on the Native Species Conservation Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, visit the ACT Environment website.