WITH a heatwave predicted for Bathurst, WIRES Central West has issued a high alert for the flying fox colony living in Machattie Park.
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The mercury is predicted to reach a top of 37 degrees on Friday and will remain in the high 30s until next Tuesday.
Around 3000 grey headed and little red flying foxes are currently calling the trees in the historic city-centre park home.
“Flying foxes are especially susceptible to a run of days with high temperatures,” a post to the WIRES Central West Facebook page stated.
“Flying foxes suffering heat stress may come to the ground or move lower down roosts closer to the ground during daylight hours.
“If you see this please call WIRES or another wildlife care group immediately 1300 094 737.”
The WIRES post also stated that it was vital to never touch or handle a flying fox under any circumstances.
“A very small number may present a risk of contracting Australian bat lyssavirus, a disease transmitted through bites and scratches,” the post read
“If you are waiting for a WIRES rescuer to arrive and you are able to safely provide some form of shade over the flying-fox (without touching it) to keep it out of the direct sun, please do so.
“If the flying-fox is on the ground and it’s a hot day, you can place a cool towel or umbrella above it until the rescuer arrives to protect it from the the worst of the heat.
“Spraying the animal intermittently with a very light mist or setting up a sprinkler to gently wet the animal can also help.”