When staff at an Australian resort spotted an unexpected guest splashing around in their swimming pool, they quickly realized this was no ordinary swimmer. So they called in an expert — but not from security.
They contacted Kate CJ Murphy, president of Townsville Bat Rescue, because their surprise visitor was a young red flying fox who’d found herself in deep water.
When Murphy arrived, she saw the tiny bat struggling to stay afloat, her wings slick with water, squeaking desperately for help. Without hesitation, Murphy knelt by the pool and extended her hand.
To her amazement, the frightened little bat began swimming straight toward her, as if she somehow knew this human was there to save her. Gently, Murphy lifted the soaked animal out of the water and wrapped her in a towel for warmth and comfort.
“She must’ve swooped down for a drink and fallen in,” Murphy explained. “Bats can swim, but the pool’s steep edges make it impossible for them to climb out.”
Thankfully, resort staff noticed in time — and called the right person.
The young bat was still too small to survive on her own, so Murphy took her in. Now, she’s recovering alongside dozens of other bats being cared for at Townsville Bat Rescue, where she’ll stay until she’s strong enough to return to the wild.
“She’s doing very well,” Murphy said. “Soon, she’ll be flying free again.”
From a resort pool to a second chance at life, this little “unauthorized swimmer” is proof that even the smallest rescue can make a world of difference.
To follow more of Townsville Bat Rescue’s lifesaving work, visit them on Facebook.
