Bats are an important part of our local ecosystem, assisting in pollination and controlling insect/vector populations. You can often see them taking flight around dusk every day. However, residents and visitors alike should heed this safety message: Do not touch bats!
Bats can carry Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), a serious and potentially fatal virus which can be transmitted to humans via bites or scratches. Bats that appear healthy can still carry this virus. The rule is simple: NO TOUCH = NO RISK.
If you see a bat on the ground, tangled in a fence or otherwise in distress, ensure you maintain a safe distance from it and do not touch it. Please ensure pets and children remain clear. If safe to do so, you can help to contain it by placing a weighed down cardboard box or laundry basket over it (from a safe distance). The next thing to do is to immediately contact the Nhulunbuy Corporation's Animal Management Officer (AMO) on 0419 838 064 or by calling the office on 08 8939 2200. The AMO is one of the few individuals in Nhulunbuy who is vaccinated against ABLV and is trained to handle bats safely to assist these vulnerable creatures without risk to themselves.
In the rare event of a bite or scratch, you should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for 15 minutes, before seeking urgent medical attention.