Pteropus scapulatus

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Family

Pteropodidae

Genus

Pteropus

Species

scapulatus

Common name/s

Collared Flying-fox, Collared Fruit-bat, Little Red Fruit-bat, Reddish Fruit-bat

Distinguishing Features

This reddish-brown winged creature is about 21cm in length. Its face is similar to one of a small possum or wallaby. It has a light yellow-brown fur patch across its shoulders and pale yellow hairs on the underside of its otherwise hairless wings membranes. Its transparent wing-membranes are noticeable in flight.

Similar Species

The Grey-headed Flying-fox is darker coloured and slightly larger.

Distribution

This species is found across northern Australia from the west of WA across to central QLD and down through NSW and northeast VIC.

Country of Origin

Australia

Survey Techniques

Night searches and calls

Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - National

Secure, not listed under the EPBC Act 1999. Considered a pest in some fruit growing areas if natural food availability is limited.

Associated vegetation community

This species is found across a range of landscapes, especially eucalypt forests, woodlands, mangroves and orchard areas.

Limiting Resources

This species is limited by the availability of its preferred food of eucalypt blossoms. They also require available water, as moist environments are preferred.

Breeding

During November and December, huge camps of up to 100 000 flying-foxes form and breeding pairs are established. Males but on weight, have an increased odour and become more aggressive over this time. Females leave the camp after mating to create their own camps, often with other flying-fox species. Young are born in April or May, becoming sexually active themselves at 18 months.

Behaviour

The Little Red Flying-fox spends its time wandering in search of eucalypt blossoms. They are a highly social species and roost in tightly packed groups in trees. Climbing around the trees using their specially jointed thumbs and hind feet. At around dusk, groups disperse from the trees in search of food. A group of scouts are sent first, followed by the rest of the group if a good food source is found. This species will raid the fruit in orchards if it is found to be the best available food. Males are often seen and heard fighting, with a variety of aggressive calls and actions. Pregnant females are more nervous, flying away if approached.

Functional Group

Herbivore

Food Species

Eucalypt blossoms are the preferred food species, however a variety of fruit juices, nectar, pollen and small seeds are eaten. It chews the pulp and spits out any fibrous material, swallowing only the juice and small seeds.

Interesting Fact

This species flies further inland than any other bats in Australia, following the flowering eucalypts and pollinating the trees across the landscape.