Bare-backed rousette facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bare-backed rousette |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Rousettus
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| Species: |
spinalatus
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| Bare-backed rousette range | |
The bare-backed rousette (Rousettus spinalatus) is a special type of bat. It belongs to a group called megabats, which are generally larger than other bats. This bat is unique because its wings attach to its back, not its sides. This is very unusual for bats in its family.
Contents
About the Bare-backed Rousette
How it Got its Name
Scientists Bergmans and Hill first described this bat as a new species in 1980. The first example of this bat, called a holotype, was found in 1977. It was discovered in northern Sumatra, an island in Indonesia.
The scientific name, spinulatus, comes from Latin words. Spina means "spine" and ala means "wing." This name perfectly describes how its wings connect to its spine. This unique feature makes it stand out from other bats in the Rousettus group.
What Does This Bat Look Like?
The bare-backed rousette is a small megabat. It has a snout that looks a bit like a cone. Its face has small bumps, or warts, on its chin and around its mouth. There are also some between its upper lip and eyes.
Its wings are short and wide. The length of its forearm is about 83 to 89 millimeters (3.3 to 3.5 inches). These bats usually weigh between 88 and 94 grams (3.1 to 3.3 ounces). That's about the weight of a small apple!
How Does This Bat Live?
Bare-backed rousettes are nocturnal animals. This means they are active at night. During the day, they rest in safe, sheltered places. They often choose caves for their daytime sleep.
These bats use a simple form of animal echolocation to find their way. Echolocation is like using sound to "see" in the dark. They make high-pitched buzzing sounds with their tongues. These sounds bounce off objects, helping the bats understand their surroundings. This also helps them find food.
Their main food sources are nectar from flowers and various fruit.
Where Do Bare-backed Rousettes Live?
Their Home and Environment
You can find the bare-backed rousette in parts of Indonesia and Malaysia. They live in areas up to 300 meters (about 984 feet) above sea level. This means they prefer lower elevations.
Protecting the Bare-backed Rousette
Conservation Status
As of 2008, the bare-backed rousette is listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN. This means their numbers are decreasing. They face a risk of becoming endangered if their habitats are not protected. Efforts are being made to help these unique bats survive.
