Publication Date
Fall 2025
Abstract
Grey-headed flying foxes (Pteropus poliocephalus) have become a familiar feature of many Australian cities, and this visibility often prompts a mix of curiosity, uncertainty and concern. In Sydney, the long-term colony at Lachlan Swamp in Centennial Parklands brings thousands of visitors into close contact with the species each week. Some people respond with interest or appreciation, while others feel uneasy due to noise, smell or common misconceptions about disease. These everyday encounters raise an important question for conservation: how do people form their perceptions of flying foxes, and what role does education play in shaping coexistence in urban environments? This study explores public perceptions of grey-headed flying foxes through a combination of surveys, conversations with volunteers, an expert interview and a review of educational materials used at Centennial Parklands. The findings show that many negative or uncertain attitudes stem from limited familiarity rather than strong opposition, and that simple, accurate explanations can shift people’s comfort and understanding almost immediately. Volunteers and expert insights supported this pattern, and the media analysis demonstrated how creative, accessible communication can help normalise flying foxes as part of the urban environment. Together, these results suggest that improving everyday access to clear, engaging information is a key strategy for strengthening coexistence between people and flying foxes in Sydney and for supporting broader conservation goals in an increasingly urbanised landscape.
Disciplines
Life Sciences
Recommended Citation
Pandole, Gigi, "Learning from the roost: An exploration of public perceptions and education around grey-headed flying foxes at Centennial Parklands, Sydney." (2025). Australia: Rainforest, Reef, and Cultural Ecology. 3.
https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/ase2/3