Installing fruit tree netting can lead to severe animal welfare issues including the maiming and killing of our native Grey-haired flying fox.
The species is under threat from all angles including habitat destruction, heat stress events and reduction in food availability, which all point to possible extinction in the next 100 years.
Stopping the use of netting on fruit trees can play a significant role in reducing the number of incidents that hurt Grey-headed Flying-foxes, as well as other animals including birds and possums.
If fruit netting is required, use a wildlife-friendly product that has:
- Mesh aperture (hole size) of 5mm x 5mm or less when fully stretched (if you can poke your little finger through the net it is likely to trap and injure a hungry flying fox)
- Individual strand diameter of 500 microns or more (ie > 0.5mm)
- Is brightly coloured; do not use black, dark green or grey
Barbed wire should be avoided entirely to help protect bats, birds and other wildlife.
However, if wiring is needed, residents should ensure it is properly flagged and single strand to protect wildlife as much as possible.
