Authorities have warned of a potential health risk following the theft of a young grey-headed flying fox from an aviary in Adelaide.
Police said someone took the juvenile bat from a rear yard in Virginia Road, Salisbury, between 9:15am and 5:00pm (ACDT) on Monday.
Grey-headed flying foxes are a threatened species, and SA Health and the Environment Department warned of a health risk if someone was scratched or bitten by the animal.
Environment Department animal welfare manager Deb Kelly said anyone bitten or scratched would need urgent medical help.
“Some flying foxes carry diseases, including Australian bat lyssavirus and the Hendra virus,” she said.
“It is important that people do not handle flying foxes unless they have been vaccinated.
“Anyone bitten or scratched should wash the site immediately and seek immediate medical attention.”
Dr Kelly said flying foxes had strict dietary requirements and could suffer if they did not get specialised care.
Police urged anyone with information about the theft to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online.