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The giant fruit bat or the Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus) roosts in large colonies, up to 1,000 individuals,

Flying fox

At the Cincinnati Zoo's Nocturnal House.

during the day. Just after sunset, it heads out to forage for ripe fruits such as figs and mangos and blooming flowers. As the bat feeds and flies throughout the forest, it pollinates and disperses seeds, helping to regenerate plant growth in the ecosystem.

Facts[]

  • Length: Up to 1 ft
  • Weight: 2 to 3 lbs
  • Lifespan: 15 to 31 yrs
    IMG 0139

    Hanging from a ceiling . Taken at the Cincinnati Zoo.

  • Habitat: Tropical forest and wetland
  • Diet: Primarily fruit and flowers (juice & nectar), some insects
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