News
23 December, 2024
Lorikeets and Flying Foxes dropping at record rate in SEQld
Lorikeets and Flying Foxes are dropping across South East Queensland, as cases of Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS) and Flying Fox Paralysis Syndrome (FFPS) are rising.
RSPCA Queensland Wildlife Vets have treated 349 lorikeets and 104 flying foxes suffering from the condition since December 1.
Current hotspot suburbs include Toowong and Queens Park, Ipswich.
The RSPCA Hospital in Brisbane has been inundated and the charity is calling on members of the public to urgently seek assistance if they find sick lorikeets or flying foxes.
RSPCA Queensland Wildlife Veterinary Director, Dr Tim Portas, said the situation is critical at the moment, with RSPCA reaching capacity with FFPS.
“Unfortunately, we are at capacity today (December 10) with flying foxes suffering from paralysis syndrome,” he said.
“We’re working with Bats Conservation and Rescue QLD, our wildlife carers, along with the SEQ Hospital Network which includes Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and Australia Zoo to ensure affected flying foxes can get expert care where resources are available.”
Since the start of the year, 5,821 lorikeets have come into the RSPCA’s care, with up to 200 new birds entering the Wildlife Hospital daily in January and February. 49 Ipswich birds were released together in March.
“Flying foxes were also affected earlier this year, but not the volume we’re seeing currently which is putting pressure on our team to find resources and space to accommodate them,” says Dr Portas.
Symptoms of LPS and FFPS include:
- Inability to fly
- Hopping / wobbly gait
- Voice changes
- Inability to blink and/or swallow
LPS and FFPS are treatable when found early but requires weeks of intensive care.
If you find a sick flying fox, do not touch them. Call the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL, Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld, or your nearest wildlife carer. Protect them by covering with a washing basket or towel, and put dogs and cats away until rescuers arrive.
If you find a sick lorikeet you can transport them to your nearest vet for triage in a box with ventilation and a towel, otherwise call the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL or your nearest wildlife carer.
Other wildlife and bat rescues Moreton Bay and Somerset locals can also call include:
- Wildlife Rescue QLD on 0478 901 801
- Bat Conservation and Rescue QLD on 0488 228 134
- Australia Zoo on 1300 369 652
- Bats QLD on 0477 222 889
- Somerset Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation on 0411 273 534.
