SINCE the arrival of flying foxes at Muscle Creek, Muswellbrook, and a section of the Hunter River, in 2005, the threatened grey-headed flying-fox population has varied seasonally over time.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In recent years, Little Red Flying-foxes (LRF) have also been occupying the site.
Now, Muswellbrook Shire Council is seeking community comment on their Draft Flying Fox Management Plan.
The plan, which can be viewed on council’s website, will be on exhibition until 4.30pm, October 18, 2017.
The land occupied by the main camp area is owned by Council, Department of Infrastructure - Lands and Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC).
The Muswellbrook flying-fox Camp is located close to residential areas and unoccupied land zone RU1.
The Camp’s proximity to a caravan park and public facilities including walkways, recreational areas, sporting fields, clubs, hotels and the local hospital are the main areas of concern for the community and conflict increases when the number of flying foxes increase.
Grey-headed flying-foxes are listed as threatened species under both NSW and Commonwealth legislation, and disturbance to flying foxes and their habitat is limited by legislative requirements.
This species is highly mobile and camp populations vary widely over time due to food resource availability.
The Muswellbrook flying-fox Camp Management Plan provides a tool to ensure appropriate management of the camp.
This management plan outlines the issues of concern to the community caused by the presence of flying-foxes, and measures that will be taken to manage the land and reduce conflict with the local community.
This approach may guide Council’s approach in other locations in the local government area if flying-fox issues arise.
Experience in other areas has shown that attempts to move camps are generally unsuccessful, expensive, and likely to result in relocation of problems to neighbouring areas.
Therefore, management actions proposed at Muswellbrook are primarily to reduce the impact of flying-foxes roosting close to residential dwellings and to reduce the risk of disease transmission to the local equine industry.
Preparation of the Plan included a community survey of residents throughout the community; and consultation with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage.
The Camp Management Plan provides the framework for guiding Council’s management actions on the land, and in responding to concerns of nearby residents.
In the event that the flying-foxes no longer occupy the site or are present in low numbers, then many of the actions identified in the Plan may not be required.
Alternatively, if the number of individuals at the camp increases, then it may be necessary to review actions.
Those interested are invited to inspect the exhibited documents and make written submission, address to The General Manager, PO Box 122, Muswellbrook NSW 2333; or by email at council@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au
For more information, contact council’s environmental officer on 6549 3778.
