In China, they symbolize happiness, in Europe, their image is rather negative: Bats are very special animals, which in western countries like to serve horror stories and actually scare some people. Others are fascinated by the appearance and abilities of the nocturnal creatures, who find their way in the dark and sleep with their heads down.
Sweet is an attribute that, on the other hand, is not the first thing that comes to your most minds regarding bats. But those who, like Anja and Joerg Rockstroh, take care of wounded or orphaned flying foxes, will be taught otherwise. The injured or sick protégés, wrapped in blankets, patiently waiting for their recovery, are likely to provoke more rapture than fright in most people.
In a rescue center run by volunteers, just a few kilometres south of Brisbane, Anja and Joerg are currently taking care of around 80 flying mammals. In an interview with SBS correspondent Katharina Loesche, Joerg clears up many prejudices against the bats.
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