H2_W4_012

Date: 2010

Location: Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

Did you know?

The Indian Flying Fox, also known as the Greater Indian Fruit Bat is a species of flying fox native to the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the largest bats in the world. The Greater Indian Fruit Bat plays a critical role in pollination and seed propagation. It roosts in large, established colonies on open tree branches.

About the picture

This rare picture of the Fruit Bat skimming on the water to quench its thirst was photographed in Ranganathittu. After completing our photography in the morning session, we were on our way back when we suddenly noticed this bat swooping down like a Pelican to drink water while skimming. Lucky to get this image and I have never witnessed this behaviour again.

Fun Fact

The wingspan of an adult male Greater Indian Fruit Bat ranges from 1.2–1.5 m (3 ft 11 in – 4 ft 11 in).