The flying foxes were a noticeable absence around Katherine last week, much to the relief of frustrated residents who said their presence had forced them to become “prisoners” in their own homes.

While the Katherine North park remains closed, council operations manager David Moore said staff would be in a position to assess just how much damage the native animals had caused once branches broken by roosting had been removed.

“[Parks and Wildlife Commission NT] advise that all the bats have left park, but there are still some in the neighbourhood,” he explained.

Tree lopping started on May 3 and Mr Moore said the council would be able to advise how long the park would remain closed when the work was completed.

“Council staff will move into the park for full restoration after the tree lopping is complete,” he said.