The number of bats in Muswellbrook Shire has gone down, significantly

At the most recent count, using scientific methods Council is required to use by state authorities, the estimated number of flying foxes in Muswellbrook Shire is currently about 25,000.

That’s 85 per cent less than the last count, which found 150,000 flying foxes.

We understand it’s still a tough situation

The number of flying foxes in all the council areas of the Upper Hunter is still challenging for residents, businesses and the animals themselves. We’re doing what we can as a local council.

These animals are protected by law

Grey-headed flying foxes are a vulnerable species under NSW and Australian law. That means it’s illegal to harm or disturb them – that includes with noise.

Why they’re here

Flying foxes often follow the flowering of native trees like eucalypts and figs. Autumn brings natural food sources, so their arrival then wasn’t unusual – though this year they reached an exceptional number.

Yes, the numbers are large

We estimate between 22,000 and 27,000 flying foxes are currently in the Shire, including a camp near Muscle Creek in Muswellbrook.

We’re taking action where we can

Council staff are working with a few residents near Muscle Creek to determine if it is possible to trim trees in their yards to reduce the impact of bats roosting over their outdoor and roof areas.

Council has begun planting potential bat habitat near the Denman Wastewater Treatment Plant to provide a possible alternative to the Denman camp site that is in the centre of Denman.

Council has been looking for potential areas along the Hunter River, near Muswellbrook, to also complete bat habitat planting as a possible alternative to the Muscle Creek camp sites.

Planting habitat areas out of town areas near waterways is a long-term action that will take 10 or more years to have a result.  Riparian plantings have the extra benefit of improving the health of waterways.

Don’t try to move flying foxes yourself

Loud noises, motorbikes or other attempts to scare the bats away don’t work and can make things worse for residents by agitating the bats – they make more noise and poo more as a result. These actions are often illegal.

Flying fox relocations don’t work long-term

Studies show attempts to move camps are expensive and often just shift the problem temporarily or to a new area. Many bats return or are replaced by other bats.

We’re working with state authorities

Council has engaged the NSW Department of Environment and requested emergency funding to help manage this situation.

Let’s work together

We truly appreciate your help managing this as a community. It’s about finding the right balance between taking action and meeting our responsibilities.