Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
Habitat
This species inhabits the tropical and subtropical moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats in southern India, preferring areas with caves, rock crevices, and dense vegetation for roosting. It is typically found at elevations between 500 and 1500 meters, avoiding heavily disturbed or urbanized areas.
Diet
Salim Ali's fruit bat primarily feeds on ripe fruits such as figs, bananas, and other soft fruits, which it locates using echolocation. It forages at night in small groups, playing a key role in seed dispersal within its habitat.
Behavior
This bat is nocturnal, emerging at dusk to forage in small groups or pairs, and it roosts in colonies of up to 50 individuals in caves or tree hollows. It exhibits territorial behavior around roosting sites but is generally social during feeding. Males may perform courtship displays involving vocalizations and flights to attract females.
Conservation Status
Salim Ali's fruit bat is classified as Endangered by the IUCN, with populations declining due to habitat loss from deforestation and agriculture. Major threats include human disturbance and potential hunting for bushmeat in some areas.