48 bent-wing microbats have been killed in an arson attack in a disused railway tunnel on the Sunshine Coast.
Dularcha Railway Tunnel at Mooloolah Valley has been closed while Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers investigate a deliberately lit fire that killed the bats.
Rangers and wildlife rescuers were alerted to the “distressing situation” on Sunday afternoon and took immediate action to rescue and treat dozens of severely injured bats.
A Department of Environment, Science and Innovation spokesperson says “despite the tireless efforts of rangers, wildlife rescuers, and staff from the Australian Zoo Wildlife Hospital, the 48 injured bats could not be saved.
“This is an extremely serious incident and rangers are investigating the matter,” the spokesperson said.
“We are pursuing some strong leads and are urging anyone with information that can assist our investigation to call the QPWS Maleny office on 5494 3893 or report via the DESI website.
The old railway tunnel in Dularcha National Park is home to a large colony of micro bats.
Access through the tunnel is currently restricted, and will remain so until it can be declared safe.
The tunnel track remains open, however park users will need to bypass the tunnel via the tunnel bypass track.
Members of the public are asked to observe all signage, safety barriers and directions from rangers, and should stay out of closed areas.
