The Grey-headed flying fox is listed as VULNERABLE to extinction by the NSW, Victorian and Australian governments as their population decreased by more than 30 per cent over the last 10 years.
A study suggested that if the decrease in population continues, the Grey-headed flying fox will be extinct in the wild in 80-85 years.
Why are Grey-headed Flying Foxes important?
Grey-headed Flying Foxes are important because they help native trees and rainforests to survive and regenerate by pollinating trees as they feed and dispersing seeds as they move throughout the forest.
It is estimated that a single grey-headed flying-fox can disperse up to 60,000 seeds in one night.
How to help save and protect the endangered Grey-Headed Flying Foxes
Conserve and protect Grey-headed flying fox habitat and foraging areas.
Plant roosting trees for flying-foxes in your backyard or neighbourhood. Use safe fruit tree netting that does not tangle birds and bats.
volunteer and donate
Contact your local council or the wildlife care group in your area to volunteer and donate, to help raise public awareness about Grey-headed flying foxes, and to help care and rehabilitate this threatened animal. Contact RSPCA or your local wildlife care group if you see injured, sick, or orphaned Grey-headed flying foxes. Do not attempt to rescue it yourself.
care for baby grey-headed flying foxes
There are baby Grey-headed flying foxes that are abandoned, separated, or orphaned due to accidents or colony disturbance. These babies are rescued and cared for by trained volunteer carers and released back to the wild when ready.
The babies are usually offered dummies to imitate their natural behaviour in the wild where the baby clings to the mother's body and attaches to one of her nipples. They are also wrapped snugly in blankets to mimic the warm embrace of a mother's wings.
Always seek advise from the State or national government before doing activities that may kill or injure flying-foxes or interfere with their camps.