Over 72,000 flying foxes perished in Australia’s black summer, scientists warn climate change

Thousands of flying foxes have died from scorching heat in Australia. (Image: X/@DrTOMontgomery0

• 72,000 of flying foxes died in southeast Australia during a record heatwave.
• Vulnerable grey-headed flying foxes hit hardest by mass die-off.
• Experts link deaths to climate change and prolonged extreme heat events.

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Australia is facing a catastrophic flying fox die-off once again. Thousands of bats have perished in the southeast during January. Experts call this the worst mass mortality since Black Summer.

The deaths occurred during a record-breaking heatwave exceeding 42 °C. Grey-headed flying foxes, a vulnerable species, were hardest hit. The crisis highlights growing threats to wildlife from climate change.

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Thousands of flying foxes have died from scorching heat in Australia. Rescuers were in tears as they prised pups away from dead mothers. Before the heatwave hit, Victoria’s flying fox volunteers were at capacity, with hundreds in care due to a prolonged starvation event… pic.twitter.com/UXHIY0fy2E — Dr Tom Montgomery (@DrTOMontgomery) January 12, 2026

What Is Happening to Flying Foxes?

Thousands of bats have died in extreme heat across southeast regions. Grey-headed flying foxes, a vulnerable species, are suffering the most. Many mothers were found dead, with pups clinging desperately nearby. The event is described as the worst since the Black Summer. Scientists warn climate change is making heat stress more frequent.

Where and Who Observed These Deaths?

Wildlife groups in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia reported deaths. Rescue organisations and volunteers counted more than 72,000 flying foxes died in 8 separate extreme heat events during black summer. Some colonies showed hundreds of dead bats per hectare of trees. Brimbank Park in Melbourne was particularly affected, with many pups orphaned.

Why Is This Happening?

Scientists link deaths to prolonged heatwaves and climate extremes. Flying foxes cannot regulate body temperature above certain thresholds. Dehydration and starvation occur when nectar sources dry under heat. These events show how climate change threatens wildlife survival in Australia.

Have Scientists Cracked the Reason Behind Deaths?

Researchers confirm extreme temperatures overwhelmed bats’ natural cooling abilities. Heat stress caused dehydration and exhaustion, killing thousands of bats. Dried nectar sources worsened the situation, limiting food availability. Scientists say repeated events increase long-term risks for vulnerable species.

Can These Bats Be Saved?

Rescue groups provide hydration, shade and care to surviving bats. Orphaned pups are placed in temporary care and feeding programs. Public is urged to report sightings and avoid handling sick bats. Scientists continue researching long-term conservation strategies for flying foxes. Conservation programs aim to reduce heat exposure and protect critical habitats.