Displacement of Black Flying-foxesPteropus alectofrom Batchelor, Northern Territory

This paper reports upon an operation to displace camps of Black Flying-foxes Pteropus alecto using non-lethal methods from the town of Batchelor. The flying-foxes showed a preference for camping in African Mahogany trees Khala senegalensis. Flying-foxes were dispersed by a team of Parks and Wildlife staff and community volunteers using a combination of smoke, non-lethal plastic shot and noise. The flying-foxes ceased roosting in the town during the operation but continued efforts were required to ensure that flying-fox camps did not re-establish within the town. The use of methods for dispersal, the removal of camp trees and public relations are discussed.