Word on the Street 27 March

Burdekin Shire Council Plans 'Nudging' Operation for Flying Foxes, Do You Have Experience With The Bats And What Is Your Opinion On The Situation?

Damien:
“I've had experience with bats over the past year, but haven't directly seen them causing issues for residents. Still, I support what the council is doing. If no action is taken, things will only get worse and harder to handle later. Unless they're actively moved, bats will keep returning. Nudging makes sense because there needs to be control. Without it, the flying foxes will keep multiplying, impacting more homes and making it tougher for people in the community to live comfortably.”
Bruce Bailey:
“I haven't had much direct experience with flying foxes, mainly because I've only been living in Burdekin for about a year. But from what I've seen, I don't think trying to remove them will help much, as they'll probably just return. Eradication isn't a realistic or ethical solution, so options are limited. That's why I don't agree with the council's nudging strategy—it seems ineffective and unlikely to provide a lasting solution to the flying fox problem in the area.”
Paula Tsasousis:
“We've seen plenty of flying foxes around our home, mostly just flying overhead, but they've been more of a nuisance in parks. It's definitely a problem that needs addressing because it affects public spaces that everyone uses. The council needs to act decisively. I'm not overly concerned about the specific method they choose, as long as it solves the problem. I fully support the nudging approach because it's essential for the comfort and safety of residents who use local parks regularly.”
Daryl:
“I'm unsure about the council’s strategy for dealing with the flying foxes. I grew up in Cairns, and there were always flying foxes because they were attracted to mango trees. It's pretty much the same situation here. Removing mango trees isn't realistic because practically every home has one. I doubt the nudging will work since flying foxes will just find new places with plenty of fruit. I think the council’s efforts probably won’t succeed because the environment naturally attracts them, and the population will just keep growing.”
Lisa Murray:
“I haven't personally had problems with flying foxes, and being an animal lover, I don't think they're a big issue. I know Charters Towers has struggled with them, but I didn't realize Ayr or Burdekin faced similar troubles. I'm sceptical about the council's nudging strategy because I'm not clear on exactly what they plan to do. My family loves animals, and we'd prefer more information about their methods before supporting any action that might negatively affect the flying foxes or local wildlife in general.”
Dawn:
“Yes, I've definitely experienced flying foxes first-hand. We used to live near a large colony and often made loud noises by banging tins and metal to scare them off, but that's not feasible anymore, especially in towns. So, I support the council's strategy. It's necessary because parks are important for children and families, and with too many flying foxes around, there are real health risks. The council needs to act to keep public areas safe for everyone, particularly kids who play there regularly.”
Suzanne Tallis:
“I'm not sure about this approach. It seems to me the council might be trying to push flying foxes away from their natural habitats more for political reasons than practical ones. My concern is about where these bats will go if they're moved. Without suitable places to relocate, the council's plan could end up creating more problems. Overall, I don't feel the nudging strategy is thoughtful or effective, and the council should consider a better plan that respects both wildlife and community needs.”