Meet the Seychelles Fruit Bat: Flying Foxes of Cousine Island
The fruit bat, often known as the flying fox, is an iconic species on Cousine Island, playing a crucial role in maintaining our island’s delicate ecosystem.
Flying Fox (Pteropus Seychellensis) climbing tree branches and eating jackfruit in the jungle of La Digue, Seychelles.
Cousine Island’s only land mammal
The Seychelles fruit bat is the only mammal found on land on Cousine Island (aside from the staff and guests). These nocturnal creatures are the largest bats (and only indigenous land-based mammals) in the Seychelles, boasting wingspans that can reach up to 1.5 meters. Their size and contrasting colouring (black wings with a bright orange-yellow head and neck) make this mammal easy to identify both in flight and while roosting in the treetops.
This species can be seen throughout most of the year, but occurs in higher numbers between the months of November to February due to the higher availability of food sources. They can be found roosting communally in the treetops during the heat of the day, only emerging in the later afternoon to feed. When at their feeding tree, these animals are extremely noisy and their squabbling can be heard across Cousine for much of the night, giving the island a somewhat spooky feeling.
Seychelles Fruit Bats can often be spotted in the sky at dusk and dawn.
Crucial Role in the ecosystem
With their keen sense of smell and strong eyesight, fruit bats are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits and flowers. This diet not only sustains the bats but also makes them essential pollinators and seed dispersers, contributing significantly to the regeneration of native plant species. Their role in pollination is particularly vital for the propagation of certain fruit trees and plants, which rely heavily on these bats to transfer pollen from flower to flower.
On Cousine Island, we are deeply committed to protecting these fascinating creatures through dedicated conservation efforts. Our team closely monitors the fruit bat populations, ensuring that their natural habitats are preserved and that these bats have access to ample food sources and safe roosting sites. The conservation of their habitats is crucial, as it supports the broader ecosystem by maintaining the diversity of plant life. Our efforts are complemented by collaborations with international researchers who study the behavior and ecology of fruit bats. These studies provide valuable insights into their migration patterns, breeding habits, and interactions with other species, helping us develop more effective conservation strategies.
A previous conservation management couple assisted in the rehabilitation and release of a juvenile fruit bat, which they named Squeaker. He has been known to make an annual return to the staff office area on Cousine. We are waiting with much anticipation for his arrival this year.
Visitors to Cousine Island have the unique opportunity to learn about the critical role that fruit bats play in our ecosystem. Through our educational programs and guided tours, guests can observe these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper understanding of their nocturnal behaviors and ecological importance. The fruit bats’ ability to consume large quantities of fruit and nectar aids in the dispersal of seeds, which helps to regenerate forested areas and maintain the health of the island’s ecosystem. This process is essential for sustaining the rich biodiversity of Cousine Island, making fruit bats an integral part of our natural heritage.
Sea Skimming: why Fruit Bats dip themselves in salt water
Seychelles Fruit Bats have been observed skimming the ocean on exceptionally calm days. Flying very close to the surface, they swoop down to dip their chests in the water. The bats do not drink the salty water when skimming. While reasons for this behavior not exactly understood, it is believed that the bats do this to remove pests or increase mineral intake. These highly risky maneuvers are only undertaken by a few bats when the weather and seas are very calm.
Bat Rescue: Project Paradise Seychelles
This amazing non-profit organization rescues, rehabilitates and releases wildlife with a high standard of professional and expert care. Their key species of focus are Seychelles Flying Fox, Hawksbill Turtle and Aldabra Giant Tortoise.
In the interview with Discover Animals' Geoff Moore below, founder Tamara Dreyer discusses threats to the fruit bats such as collisions with infrastructure and human predation for ‘Kari Sousouri’ or fruit bat curry, considered a delicacy by some. Project Paradise has a fascinating and successful rehabilitation program for the Seychelles Fruit Bat, especially for pups that are separated from their mothers.
ongoing Fruit Bat conservation efforts
Protecting fruit bats is not just about preserving a single species; it’s about maintaining the intricate balance of our island’s ecosystem. Our conservation efforts align with our broader commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. We believe that by educating our guests about the importance of conservation, we can inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world and encourage responsible tourism practices.
As part of our conservation initiatives, we invite guests to participate in activities that highlight the significance of fruit bats and other wildlife on the island. By joining us in these efforts, visitors can contribute to the preservation of this incredible species and the broader ecosystem. Together, we can ensure that Cousine Island remains a sanctuary for fruit bats and a model for conservation. Our collective actions today will help protect the natural heritage of the Seychelles, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the unique beauty and biodiversity of Cousine Island.
Help us preserve biodiversity
You can contribute to our conservation mission simply by visiting the island, even Just for a Day. We invite guests to participate in our ongoing conservation efforts like indigenous tree planting, guided conservation walks, turtle breeding experiences, and excursions to uninhabited and protected islands around the archipelago. Even if you never leave the beach or only admire our incredible birdlife, you’re helping restore and preserve the environment through ecotourism. Check our eco calendar to plan your visit or rent the entire island for the ultimate private island experience.
