Large Flying Fox
Pteropus vampyrus
Conservation Status
Near ThreatenedMammalia · Chiroptera · Pteropodidae
About
The large flying fox, also known as the greater flying fox, Malayan flying fox, Malaysian flying fox, large fruit bat, kalang, or kalong, is a southeast Asian species of megabat in the family Pteropodidae. Despite its scientific name, it feeds exclusively on fruits, nectar, and flowers, like the other flying foxes of the genus Pteropus. It is noted for being one of the largest bats. As with nearly all other Old World fruit bats, it lacks the ability to echolocate but compensates for it with well-developed eyesight.
Fun Fact
Large flying foxes have wingspans up to 1.7 metres — among the largest of any bat — yet they eat only fruit, flowers, and nectar, making them crucial pollinators of durian and other tropical crops.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical forests and mangroves
Diet
Frugivore
Lifespan
15-20 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Habitat Fragmentation
- Illegal Logging