Native species

Flying foxes are a native species and are protected under threatened species legislation. They sometimes establish camps in urban areas because of the loss of their natural habitat or in response to local food availability. This can cause concern for the local community, due to the noise, mess and disease risk. However, flying-foxes pose no major health risks if they are not handled, as diseases such as Lyssavirus and Hendra virus are only transmitted through being bitten or scratched.

If there is a flying fox camp near your neighbourhood:

• Try to leave them alone, they are quietest when left undisturbed
• Do not harm the animals or relocate the camp. Flying-foxes are a protected species and approval from the state government is required to move them on
• If you come across a flying fox do not handle it, if it is wounded call the Native Animal Trust Fund on 0418 628 483
• Try to avoid contact with flying fox droppings, including water in rainwater tanks

Flying foxes play an important role in Australian environments because they are natural pollinators and seed dispersers. They are crucial for the survival and regeneration of our native forests and are important for local honey production. They also provide food for other native animals such as owls.

If you have further questions or concerns about a flying-fox camp in your area, call 131 555.

Related information

• Flying foxes and health
• Blackalls Park Flying Fox Camp Management Plan(PDF, 2MB)
  

The Australian magpie is a native Australian bird and is protected under State legislation. The magpie plays an important role in natural pest management, as it preys on small insects such as mosquitoes and midges. It is a serious offence to harm magpies and penalties apply for attempting to harm them.

During the breeding period (early spring) there are often reports of magpies swooping in the Lake Macquarie area. This breeding period generally lasts for about six weeks.

If a magpie swoops at you, these are simple steps you can follow:

• Walk quickly and carefully away from the area, and avoid walking there when magpies are swooping.
• Try to keep an eye on the magpie while walking carefully away. Magpies are less likely to swoop if you look at them. Alternatively, you can draw or sew a pair of eyes onto the back of a hat, and wear it when walking through the area. You can also try wearing your sunglasses on the back of your head.
• Wear a bicycle or skateboard helmet. Any sort of hat, even a hat made from an ice cream container or cardboard box, will help protect you.
• Carry an open umbrella, or a stick or small branch, above your head but do not swing it at the magpie, as this will only provoke it to attack.
• If you are riding a bicycle, get off it and wheel it quickly through the area. Your bicycle helmet will protect your head, and you can attach a tall red safety flag to your bicycle or hold a stick or branch as a deterrent.