Canberra's autumn bat population is at its highest numbers since 2011, despite dropping by almost two thirds from summer's record-breaking total.
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In January, Wildlife ACT bat coordinator Kristie Hawkins said she estimated the Commonwealth Park colony had reached more than 6000, the highest number in recent history.
The colony had been made up primarily of grey-headed flying foxes, which have been coming to Canberra in increasing numbers over recent years.
Australian Bat Society member Suzie Lamb, who conducted the most recent count in Canberra's Commonwealth Park, said there were approximately 2150 grey-headed flying foxes at the end of April.
This was substantially more than in 2012 and 2013, when about 400 bats remained in the colony in early autumn.
Ms Lamb said although there was a substantially larger number, it didn't indicate they would be staying in Canberra throughout winter.
"It does not necessarily mean they will stick around or come back in higher numbers next summer," she said.
In past years, almost all flying foxes have left the ACT by the start of winter, with the exception of 2011 when some sheltered in Commonwealth Park during the winter months.
In 2011, there were more than 3000 bats remaining in the Commonwealth Park colony in early autumn.
Ms Lamb said it was likely the flying foxes would leave before the winter months began.
"Looking at the data I would be very surprised if they didn't leave this winter," she said. "I do expect them to leave or their numbers to reduce significiantly based on previous years data.
"However I wouldn't or couldn't guarantee it."
She said the colony varies in Canberra over time based on food resources and availability in the region.
A spokesperson for the National Capital Authority said they believed there was no reason to be concerned at this stage.
"We're assessing the audit as part of our maintenance of the national estate," she said.
ACT Wildlife president Marg Peachey said there had been a noticeable decrease in the number of bats being brought in to their organisation.
"Until today we hadn't had one for a couple of weeks and we were getting them daily before that."
Ms Peachey said despite the decreased number of bats, if anyone encountered one in their backyard they should not handle it and call ACT Wildlife on 0432 300 033 or RSPCA Wildlife on 6387 8122.
"If bitten or scratched you should wash the wound very carefully with soap and water and see your doctor," she said.