Massive Wildfires & Extreme Heat in Australia Have Put Flying Foxes At-Risk

Communities in Victoria and south-east Australia have been hit hard by destructive bushfires. The nearly 1 million acres of scorched land poses a serious risk to Australia’s wildlife, including grey-headed flying foxes, a threatened native species vital to forest recovery.

Flying foxes live in large camps that are highly sensitive to heat. When temperatures climb above 100°F, animals can suffer fatal heat stress in hours. Extreme heat conditions, which also drive the intensity of bushfires across Victoria, put entire colonies at risk.

These bats play a critical role in Australia’s ecosystems, pollinating and dispersing seeds for more than 100 native plant species. Large losses during extreme heat events, particularly of pups (baby bats), could impact an entire breeding season and make it harder for forests already damaged by fire to recover.

That’s why Greater Good Charities is working with responding wildlife partners to support emergency care at flying fox camps, including monitoring colonies and treating heat-stressed animals.

Recovery from these devastating fires will be long and extensive. Efforts at bringing the Australian bush back to life must include replanting trees and other flora, and working to restore the habitats of Australia's wildlife.

You can help—donate today to provide critical support for flying foxes affected by extreme heat and bushfire conditions.