Pteropus niger (Kerr, 1792)

Species Naming and Size Distinction

The Mauritian flying fox, scientifically named Pteropus niger (Kerr, 1792), can reach a wingspan of 80 cm (31 in), making it the largest endemic mammal on Mauritius.

Fur and External Features

Its fur is golden, it has small ears, and thick hair grows on its tibiae.

Dorsal Coloration

Its dorsal coloration includes a glossy, blackish brown mantle tinged with rufous, which extends backward into a dark brown median spinal tract flanked by buff lateral patches.

Forearm Length and Sexual Dimorphism

It is a medium-sized species; the average adult forearm length is 152 mm, with no size difference between males and females.

Weight Range

Individuals range in weight from 40 to 800 g.

Activity Pattern

The species is mostly nocturnal, though some individuals are occasionally seen during the day, and they normally finish roosting by sunrise.

Elevation Range

They occur from sea level up to 1,500 m above sea level.

Forest Habitat

This flying fox lives in forests within the Black River Gorges, Combo, and Bel Ombre national parks.

Plantation Habitat and Human Conflict

It can occasionally be found in fruit plantations, which brings it into conflict with farmers.

Roost Distribution

No roosts of these bats exist in village areas; most bats are located in the Bel Ombre forest, with smaller populations in the Combo Forest and near Black River Village.

Roosting and Diel Activity

Mauritian flying foxes roost in large groups and are active at dusk and dawn.

General Diet and Ecological Role

Their diet consists of fruit and nectar, which makes them important seed dispersers and pollinators for the local ecosystem.

Ecosystem Importance Context

Since less than 1.9% of Mauritius supports native vegetation, and native plant species have poor reproductive success, the survival of this species is important for the entire island ecosystem.

Primary Diet Component

The diet of the Mauritian flying fox consists mainly of fruits.

Consumed Plant Species Diversity

One study found the bats consume 20 species of plants, 18% of which are native to Mauritius.

Conservation Status of Consumed Native Plants

36% of these native plant species are either vulnerable or rare.

Seed Dispersal Mechanism

The bats disperse many seeds in flight through their feces, which is ultimately beneficial to many native plant species.

Feeding Strategy

P. niger is an opportunistic feeder, generally adapting to eat whatever plants or fruits are available to it at any given time.

Comparative Ecological Roles

While little evidence supports that P. niger plays a valuable role in the pollination process, its role as a seed disperser is important to the survival of many plant species on Mauritius.