Data and methods used

Grey-headed flying foxes have long been viewed as pests in Australia — but have we been overlooking the good they do for the environment, and even the economy?

A new research paper published this month suggests that the bats are responsible for creating more than 91 million trees in Australia — which in turn generates hundreds of millions of dollars for the country's timber industry.

• Guest: Dr Alexander Braczkowski, conservation biologist and senior author of the study
• Producer: Pip Cook