13/10/2026
Increased flying-fox illness and deaths are being observed, with food shortages and starvation considered a likely cause.
H5 bird flu is considered an unlikely cause of these events.
Here’s what you can do:
If the bat is alive:
âś‹ Keep your distance. Never touch or handle a bat unless you are appropriately trained and vaccinated. Keep children, dogs and cats away.
🦇 If you find a sick or injured flying-fox, contact your local wildlife carer for advice: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/land-mammals/flying-foxes/rescuing-and-rehabilitating-flying-foxes
If the bat is dead:
🏞️ If it's on public land, contact your local council or the relevant land manager about safe removal and/or disposal.
🏠If it’s on your property, follow NSW Government guidance on the safe disposal of animal carcasses:
https://www.dpird.nsw.gov.au/dpi/biosecurity/animal-biosecurity/vet-hub/disposal-of-carcasses
⚠️ If you or your pet has had contact with a bat, remember the risk of Australian bat lyssavirus (ABLV). People should wash the affected area thoroughly and promptly seek medical advice. For pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
đź“ž Unusual numbers of sick or dead animals? Call the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
For more information on H5 bird flu visit: www.nsw.gov.au/h5birdflu
For more information on ABLV visit: https://www.dpird.nsw.gov.au/dpi/biosecurity/animal-biosecurity/animal-diseases-of-concern-for-nsw2/australian-bat-lyssavirus
