Hammer-headed Bat
Hypsignathus monstrosus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Chiroptera · Pteropodidae
About
The hammer-headed bat, also known as hammer-headed fruit bat, big-lipped bat, and hammerhead bat, is a megabat widely distributed in West and Central Africa. It is the only member of the genus Hypsignathus, which is part of the tribe Epomophorini along with four other genera. It is the largest bat in continental Africa, with wingspans approaching 1 m (3.3 ft), and males are almost twice as heavy as females. Males and females also greatly differ in appearance, making it the most sexually dimorphic bat species in the world. These differences include several adaptations that help males produce and amplify vocalizations: the males' larynges are about three times as large as those of females, and they have large resonating chambers on their faces. Females appear more like a typical megabat, with foxlike faces.
Fun Fact
Male hammer-headed bats have bizarrely enlarged larynxes and lip flaps that fill most of their skull cavity, amplifying their honking calls at lek displays where dozens of males compete for female attention.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical forests and swamps
Diet
Frugivore
Lifespan
10-15 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Illegal Logging