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A sudden influx of flying foxes into the Sunset suburb of Mount Isa has left residents cleaning droppings, fallen branches and dead animals from their yards daily, with the local council warning it has little legal power to move the colony on quickly.
What Happened
A camp of little red flying foxes formed across private properties in the Sunset suburb of Mount Isa in early September 2026, growing within about a week into what residents describe as “an explosion” of animals. Queensland’s Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation confirmed the camp and said the animals are expected to move on once the flowering trees they are feeding on finish blooming. Wildlife rangers have inspected the site and met with Mount Isa City Council on management options.
Who It Affects
Households in Sunset, Mount Isa, are dealing with gardens covered in droppings, dead flying foxes, leaves and fallen branches, with some branches blocking driveways and damaging cars, roofs and boats. One resident told the ABC they spent three to four hours a day cleaning in the worst of it, and outdoor areas have become unusable for some households. Insurance repairs for existing property damage are reportedly being delayed because builders will not work on site while the infestation continues.
What Readers Should Do
Flying foxes are a protected native species in Queensland, so residents cannot legally harm, disturb roosting animals or interfere with a camp without approval. Legally permitted deterrents are limited to noise, lights and water sprays that do not harm the animals, and Mount Isa City Council is coordinating a possible joint approach with affected residents rather than allowing individual action. If your property is affected, keep records and photos of damage for insurance purposes, contact your insurer early given reported repair delays, and register your concerns with council so you are included in any coordinated management plan. Avoid direct contact with flying foxes or their droppings, as they can carry disease; wash any contaminated surfaces with detergent and water and avoid touching sick or injured animals.
What to Watch Next
Mount Isa City Council has received a $38,500 state grant to develop a management plan, currently in draft and under departmental review, and council’s chief executive Tim Rose has said direct financial help for residents with cleanup, water bills or property damage is unlikely. Watch for the finalised management plan and any coordinated deterrent program, and for the state government’s assessment of when the flowering season, and the flying foxes with it, will end. For other unwanted wildlife around the home, see our guide on keeping possums out of a roof space.
Official Source / Verification
This article is based on ABC News reporting published 15 September 2026 (“Flying fox influx overruns Mount Isa suburb ‘like a cloud coming over'”), including statements from the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation and Mount Isa City Council chief executive Tim Rose.
This article is general information only. Flying foxes are a protected species; always follow current Queensland Government guidance before attempting any deterrent measures, and contact your council or the department directly for advice on your specific situation.
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