Indian Flying Fox Pteropus medius

The Indian Flying Fox, also known as the Greater Indian Fruit Bat, is one of the largest bat species in the world. It is widely distributed across South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh. This species thrives in tropical forests, mangroves, urban areas, and agricultural regions, often roosting in large colonies on trees.

The Indian Flying Fox has a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters and a body length of around 25–30 cm. It is characterized by its reddish-brown fur, a fox-like face with large eyes, and long, leathery wings. Unlike insectivorous bats, this species lacks echolocation and relies on its keen eyesight and sense of smell to locate food. It is frugivorous, feeding primarily on fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and figs, as well as nectar and flowers. The species is nocturnal and social, often seen hanging upside down in large groups during the day.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Schedule II

CITES: Appendix II