Abstract

The research conducted throughout this one-month observational period shows that there are significant numbers of endangered Spectacled Flying-foxes (SFFs) roosting, foraging and fluctuating across various camps within the locations shown in Figure 1. and some additional smaller locations towards the north-west of the Port Douglas township.

The premise of this study is to provide observational information to those working with wildlife in the local area, and to contribute to a broader understanding of the unique demands of supporting a flying-fox colony of endangered status in a semi-urban environment through their birthing season.

Through working on site each day, the study expanded naturally to accommodate the pervasive and significant voice of community, council and local businesses and the identified active threats to the species in this urban environment. This report therefore reflects the work that went beyond addressing the original guiding questions below to also include general species information, discussion surrounding the social landscape in Port Douglas as a habitat chosen by this endangered species, pup rescue data and associated key findings and author recommendations. It is hoped, this report may contribute to assisting a broad range of stakeholders in the work of supporting the Spectacled Flying-foxes of this region.

Observations demonstrate Spectacled Flying-foxes are experiencing significant challenges as a result of human actions in the area. These actions appear inconsistent and out of touch with the current status of the species, its current inclusion as a priority species in the Australian Government’s Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032, and community expectations regarding wildlife. The inadequacy of protection lies with an outdated Code of Practice and Flying-fox Roost Management Guideline which refer back to the Nature Conservation Act 1992; now over 30 years old.