Angolan Epauletted Fruit Bat

Angolan epauletted fruit bat is a species of bat found in Africa. They have a body length of 10-12 cm and weigh around 35-45 grams. The wingspan of these bats is about 55 cm. They are named ‘epauletted’ due to the distinctive epaulet-like markings on their shoulders.
Angolan epauletted fruit bats are primarily vegetarian and feed on fruits, nectar, and pollen. They are known to play an important role in pollination and seed dispersal. They are also known to use echolocation to navigate through their surroundings and locate their food.
These bats have a unique social structure, unlike most other bat species. They live in small colonies, consisting of a dominant male and several females. The male is responsible for protecting the females and their offspring. They are also known to communicate with each other through vocalizations, including calls and songs.
The Angolan epauletted fruit bat is considered a species of ‘least concern,’ according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, their populations have witnessed a decline due to habitat loss, the use of pesticides, and hunting. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of these unique and valuable creatures.