Up to 5,000 bats killed by heatwave in Australia

As temperatures spiked over 43 C, up to 5,000 bats in an Australian city fell from the trees, dead, officials said.



Richmond Valley Council officials said temperatures in Casino rose to 43.8 C Saturday, more than is tolerable for flying foxes, a form of fruit bat.



Officials said up to 5,000 bats fell dead from their tree perches during the heat wave.



"Some areas along the riverbank are inaccessible and the stench from the rotting carcasses will be quite unbearable for some time yet," said John Walker, council manager .



About 450 young orphaned bats are being cared for by the Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service.





