If you see groups of sick flying foxes or rainbow lorikeets, it could be lorikeet and flying fox paralysis syndromes.

What are these syndromes?

Both occur seasonally and occur across a similar geographic range – from Sydney to South East Queensland.

As the name suggests, they cause paralysis and paresis (along with some other symptoms in some instances) in each species ultimately resulting in death.

It is not clear yet whether the agent or process causing these syndromes are the same in each species, or even what it is in either species.

These syndromes appear to be seasonal and have a far greater prevalence around 2-3 days after heavy rainfall.

What can you do?

• If you see a sick flying fox or lorikeet please:
  • Avoid contact with the animal. Record what you see, including the location of the animal and take photos or video if safe to do so.
  • Call the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625). See the Qld Government website for further advice.
• It is normal for a few animals to get sick for other reasons this time of year. An event is when multiple animals are impacted in a small area. Report events using the Flying-fox Event Report Form should you see any of the following:
  • 10 or more lorikeets in a small area e.g. under one tree
  • two or more flying foxes in a small area e.g. under one tree
• Report to please include:
  • location – dot on a map/GPS co-ordinates
  • time and date
  • number of animals you have noticed
  • photo of animals
  • photo of surrounding area e.g. tree they are next to, fruit on the ground nearby etc.