Queenslanders are invited to share their thoughts and views on flying foxes–the type of Australian fruit bat that transmits the deadly hendra virus to horses–in a new survey.

Biosecurity Queensland researcher Hume Field, BVSc, MSc, PhD, MACVS, said the community survey on flying foxes was now available online or by mail upon request.

"We are particularly interested in people’s attitudes to flying foxes and their understanding of the risk factors for hendra virus," Field said. "The survey also asks questions about attitudes to the dispersal of flying fox colonies in local communities.

"The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete and all responses will be treated confidentially. I would strongly encourage people to take part, especially if they live in a community where flying foxes are regarded as problematic