Bonnie is one of our permanent education/display bats, held under special permit. Bonnie and her best friend Phoebe provide an opportunity for the public to see flying-foxes up close. They are regularly invited to attend events, environmental displays and school presentations. Being spoiled with lots of blossom and attention is their reward, and they seem to genuinely enjoy their days out.
Bonnie was rescued as an orphan in November 2015 when her mother was electrocuted on overhead powerlines. She sustained burns to both wings, which unfortunately left her unable to fly. Usually wildlife which cannot be rehabilitated to survive in the wild is humanely euthanased, in accordance with the Code of Practice. However, after a successful introduction to Phoebe in 2016, we obtained a permit to keep Bonnie.
Bonnie loves hanging in the sun, and during winter days will snuggle up to the heater. She has a very curious and playful nature, rushing over to investigate anything new in the enclosure. Her favourite foods are fig leaves and grapes, and she has been caught helping herself to apples out of the box on fruit delivery days.
Maintaining permanent education animals is a lengthy financial commitment in terms of food, equipment and transportation. Supporting Bonnie enables us to cover these costs.