Mauritian flying fox
Mauritian flying fox (bat) in flight
In Western cultures, bats are associated with many weird myths, however, they are just unique, very useful, and -- as you can see here -- beautiful animals. This one is a "Mauritian flying fox", a large megabat species endemic to Mauritius that is known for its stunning golden fur. When those extremely shy, yet gentle animals decide to accept your presence, they fly close above you and their size can appear quite scary. I would guess this one$#39;s wingspan in flight was about 70-80 cm and I could hear its mighty wing beat very clearly. Like most bats, Mauritian flying foxes are not vampires. They are eating fruit and nectar and, as I learned recently, this actually makes them the most important seed dispersers and pollinators for the whole unique ecosystem of Mauritius Island.
Image size:
1080 x 1080 px (1 MP)
Location:
Le Morne, Mauritius
Main category:
Animals