Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat, a rare bat species, has been spotted in Delhi’s DDA Yamuna Biodiversity Park.
Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat
- Species Name:
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- Wroughton’s free-tailed bat, a highly rare species of molossus bat.
- Habitat Distribution:
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- Primarily found in the Western Ghats, where there is only one known breeding colony.
- Small colonies recorded in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya.
- A single individual was also noted in Cambodia.
- Identification Features:
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- Large size.
- Huge ears extending beyond the muzzle.
- Bi-colored velvet fur.
- Typically roosts in caves or dark, damp places in slightly warm regions.
- Ecological Role:
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- Plays a significant role as a pollinator.
- Considered critically endangered due to its restricted population.
- Scientific Classification:
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- Listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List as data deficient.
- Flying Capabilities:
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- Powerful flying skills enable the bat to forage long distances.
