Mysterious Paralysis Hits Hundreds of Lorikeets and Flying Foxes in Australia

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Hundreds of rainbow lorikeets and flying foxes dropped paralyzed from Australian skies, sparking widespread concern across Queensland and NSW.

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Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome caused devastating symptoms including voice changes, paralysis, and inability to swallow or blink in affected birds.

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Flying foxes suffered similar fate with protruding tongues and breathing difficulties, leading experts to suspect environmental toxins.

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University of Sydney research ruled out infectious agents and man-made toxins, while continuing investigation into natural causes.

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Cases increased during summer months, suggesting potential links to seasonal plant changes.

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Wildlife rescuers discovered flying foxes with severe injuries and maggot infestations while still alive.

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Bats QLD President Rhiannon Traish-Walker stressed immediate public reporting could save affected animals' lives.

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Local councils erected warning signs near flying fox camps to boost community awareness and reporting efforts.

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Rescue volunteers worked exhaustively through nights, facing mental health challenges while saving affected wildlife.

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Five-year tracking showed current outbreak as most severe, often following heavy rainfall patterns.

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