These little flying foxes are new arrivals to the Australian Bat Clinic after an extreme heat event separated them from their mothers.

Learn more about the bat clinic here:
www.australianbatclinic.com.au

MEDIA: Images available for download on dropbox https://www.dropbox.com/sh/2nrjsxpkkmwe438/AACCufyrXexAFzgnCocgDlUqa?dl=0

Flying fox colonies are under pressure in Australia due to loss of habitat, a negative public perception and extreme heat events that have wiped out entire colonies. The Australian Bat Clinic and many other wildlife groups in eastern Australia are currently inundated with baby bats that have been rescued following the latest tragedy which saw thousands of bats lose their lives due to the heat.

When a bat mother dies, often their young are still attached and will not survive without the right care. Bat carers play a vital role in not only retrieving suffering bats, but rehabilitating them until they can be released back into the wild.

When baby bats first enter rehabilitation it can be traumatising for them as they have just been separated from their mothers to which they have formed strong bonds. Bat carers have to ensure that the baby bats not only are well fed, but that they are nurtured and feel safe in their temporary new home. Providing affection to the bats is a necessity.

The teats represent their mother’s nipple, and this makes them feel more comfortable, as does the security of the blankets which they are often snugly wrapped in.

The bats will remain at the Australian Bat Clinic until they are old enough to be released.

If you love bats, consider donating! The Australian Bat Clinic spends a small fortune on food, laundry and medical equipment to keep these animals alive. Can you help? http://australianbatclinic.com.au/?page_id=188

Remember, only registered bat carers should ever touch bats. If you see a bat in trouble, call an expert or dial 1800 ANIMAL (Australia)

Music: 'warm summer' by pinkzebra
Created by Adam Cox
https://twitter.com/AdamCox17