Beyond the Branches - Flying Fox Audio Discovery Trail

7 ECHOES

Location: Maleny, Queensland, Australia

Nikki Sheth

‘Beyond the Branches’ is a project created by Nikki Sheth and Bernice Wood, where the listener will discover the incredible world of flying foxes?

So, get ready for an audio walk that will immerse you in the captivating world of flying foxes! As you listen, you'll uncover how these misunderstood creatures aren't just noisy neighbours, but vital to Australia’s ecosystem. Along the way, learn fascinating facts about their lives and how you can help protect them!

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we stand, recognise and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.

Please listen via headphones for an immersive listening experience.

Image credit: Bernice Wood

1 The Role of Flying Foxes

Think flying foxes are just noisy and messy? Think again! These nocturnal flyers are essential to Australia’s ecosystem, pollinating Eucalyptus trees and keeping koalas alive. One flying fox can spread 60,000 seeds in a night! That is amazing! Ready to uncover the incredible impact of these misunderstood creatures? Let’s take a walk and explore!

Image credit: Julie O’Connor

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2 Types of Flying Foxes

Did you know Australia’s flying foxes have their own personalities? On the Sunshine Coast, we have Grey-headed, Little Red, and Black Flying Foxes, each with unique quirks. From reddish coats to bat “thumbs” used for climbing, these mammals even share surprising similarities with humans! Ready to explore more? Let’s go!

Photo credit: Jasmine Louise Photography

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3 Flying Foxes & Microbats

Think all bats are the same? Think again! Flying foxes and microbats are like night and day. Meet Nikki Sheth, a sound artist capturing environmental and nocturnal sounds, and she will guide you through their differences. From fruit-loving flying foxes to bug-hunting microbats using echolocation, there’s a whole world of bat sounds to explore. Curious?

Image credit: Nikki Sheth

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4 Flying Foxes & Roosting

As the weather heats up, so do the flying foxes! Spring and summer bring their busiest season, with plenty of action—and noise—at night. Curious about why they're so vocal? Or how they navigate their world? Get ready to uncover the secrets of these fascinating creatures! Ready, set, let’s go!

Photo Credit: Tyron de Kauwe

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5 Threats to Flying Foxes

You may see large colonies of flying foxes roosting in trees, but don’t be fooled—many are endangered! Their populations are dwindling due to habitat loss and climate change, forcing them to gather in urban areas. Want to uncover the challenges they face and why they matter to our ecosystem? Let’s find out!

Photo credit: Nikki Sheth

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6 Fascinating Facts About Flying Foxes

Flying foxes are incredible creatures with so many fascinating traits! From their impressive wingspans to their unique ways of staying clean and caring for their young, there’s so much to discover about these amazing bats. Ready to uncover the secrets of their world? Let’s take a closer look!

Photo credit: Sunshine Coast Council

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7 Flying Foxes - What Can You Do?

Excited to protect flying foxes? There’s so much happening! From habitat restoration and wildlife corridors to community education and research, everyone can make a difference. Join us in supporting conservation efforts and discover how you can help these remarkable creatures thrive. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for flying foxes!

Photo credit: Bernice Wood

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