The various Pteropus species are the world's largest bats, and the Large Flying Fox Pteropus vampyrus can reach a wingspan of almost 1.5 metres. Despite the 'vampire' name these huge bats are fruit and nectar eaters.

The Large Flying Fox roosts in trees in large colonies, sometimes comprising hundreds of individuals. They are a key part of some forest ecosystems; whilst sipping nectar they pollinate the flowers of fruit trees, including durians.

This species ranges from Burma, Thailand, Indochina and Peninsular Malaysia to Sumatra, Borneo, Java and the Philippines. There are no known roosts in Singapore, but visits by small flocks from neighbouring countries occur when there are trees fruiting in the Central Catchment Forest.

Order : CHIROPTERA
Family : Pteropodidae
Species : Pteropus vampyrus

Wingspan : up to 1.5 metres
Forearm Length : up to 20 cm
Weight : up to 1.1 kg

References : M1, M2