Photo © Wildlife QueenslandLeading scientific Hendra virus experts state that dispersing and or destroying flying-fox camps is not a solution to the current Hendra virus situation.
'Yet Can Do Campbell Newman appears to know better and goes against such advice' said Des Boyland, Wildlife Queensland’s Campaigns Manager.
'Wildlife Queensland had hoped 'the round them up, move them out, chop down the trees' attitude being advocated by the LNP was a thing of days gone by.'
Action proposed by Campbell Newman has the possibility to spread the risk of Hendra virus not reduce it. Further stress to flying-foxes is more likely to increase the amount of virus shed. Flying-foxes are capable of flying 480kms in 48 hours and regularly these long distance pollinators cover at least 50kms to food trees.
'‘Premier Anna Bligh and her counterpart in New South Wales, Barry O'Farrell, are following the right path. They are listening to the science, advising people to heed what the authorities are saying on how to minimise the risk of Hendra and committing $6 Million dollars to expedite the needed research' stated Boyland. 'Smoke, choppers and chainsaws are not the answer to this serious situation'.
More information:
For more information on Wildlife Queensland's activities, call us on +61 7 3221 0194 or send us an email. |
