'Terrible act of harm': native bats killed in deliberately lit fire

The tiny bats died from severe burns and toxic fume inhalation as they were rushed to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital in Beerwah, Queensland.

Australia Zoo conservationist Bindi Irwin said it was "heartbreaking to see these animals suffer in their home".

She said staff at the wildlife hospital were "deeply saddened" that 47 little bent-wing microbats were killed in the "deliberate act of cruelty".

The microbat colony was discovered in the Dularcha Railway Tunnel in Mooloolah Valley on August 25.

A $1000 reward has been offered for information leading to the prosecution of those responsible for the crime against native wildlife.

Ms Irwin said that the conservation community could "play a critical role in protecting our wildlife from such terrible acts of harm".

"Members of the community are able to report any information anonymously on criminal activities against native animals." she said.

The wildlife hospital said it was "sadly not a rare occurrence" for animals to be harmed by humans.

"In the past we've received possums shot with an air rifle, a brush-turkey spray painted in toxic paint, magpies intentionally poisoned and more," the hospital said in an August 27 statement.

"These devastating stories act as a grim reminder of our collective responsibility to protect wildlife and champion for those who can't speak for themselves."

To anonymously report a crime against native wildlife, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.