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Mauritian flying fox

A species of Fruit bats, Also known as Mauritius fruit bat
Scientific name : Pteropus niger Genus : Fruit bats

Mauritian flying fox, A species of Fruit bats
Also known as:
Mauritius fruit bat
Scientific name: Pteropus niger
Genus: Fruit bats
Mauritian flying fox (Pteropus niger) Photo By Simon J. Tonge , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Description

The Mauritian flying fox can reach a wingspan of 80 cm, making it the largest endemic mammal on Mauritius. Its fur is golden. It has small ears, thick hair on the tibiae, dorsal coloration of glossy, blackish brown mantle, tinged with rufous, which extends posteriorly into a dark brown median spinal tract, flanked by buff lateral patches. It is a medium-sized species; the adult forearm length averages 152 mm, with no difference between males and females. Mostly nocturnal, although some are occasionally seen during the day, they normally roost by sunrise. These fruit bats range in size from 40-800 g and occur from sea level to 1500 m above.

General Info

Lifespan

20-30 years

Diet

The diet of mauritian flying fox is primarily frugivorous, consisting of a variety of fruits, nectar, and pollens. This bat species is crucial for seed dispersal and pollinating flowers in its tropical habitat.

Appearance

Mauritian flying fox is a large bat species with a wingspan reaching up to 1.5 meters. It has a slim body, enveloped in silky black fur. A unique feature is its elongated, dog-like face and large, pointed ears. It is characterized by its massive wings, devoid of fur. There are no significant age, gender, or subspecies differences in physical appearance.

Behavior

Mauritian flying fox is a social, nocturnal species. It typically roosts in large colonies and engages in mutual grooming. As a frugivorous bat, it forages for fruits at night, utilizing smell and sight. Mauritian flying fox can be territorial, with dominant males often defending feeding sites. Its behaviors are vital for seed dispersal in their native ecosystems.

Population

Decreasing
Mauritian flying fox (Pteropus niger) Mauritian flying fox (Pteropus niger) Photo By Simon J. Tonge , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Scientific Classification

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