What is the difference between a bat and a flying fox? - briefly
The main difference between bats and flying foxes lies in their taxonomy. Bats belong to the order Chiroptera and are further divided into two suborders: Megachiroptera (flying foxes) and Microchiroptera (echolocating bats). Flying foxes, specifically, are part of the Pteropodidae family, known for their large size and fruit-based diet.
What is the difference between a bat and a flying fox? - in detail
The terms "bat" and "flying fox" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinct groups of mammals within the order Chiroptera. Understanding their differences requires delving into various aspects such as taxonomy, physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat.
Taxonomically, bats are divided into two main suborders: Microchiroptera and Megachiroptera. Flying foxes belong to the suborder Megachiroptera, which also includes fruit bats and blossom bats. In contrast, many of the bats commonly referred to as "bats" fall under the suborder Microchiroptera, which includes species like the little brown bat and the big brown bat.
Physically, flying foxes are typically larger than microbats, with a body size ranging from 4 to 12 inches (10 to 30 cm) in length and wingspans up to 5 feet (1.5 meters). They possess a distinctive dog-like face with large eyes and a prominent snout. Their fur is often long and soft, and their wings are attached to the sides of their bodies rather than the back, allowing them to walk on all fours. Microbats, on the other hand, are usually smaller, with body lengths ranging from 1 to 4 inches (2.5 to 10 cm) and wingspans up to 3 feet (1 meter). They have a more bat-like appearance with small eyes and ears, and their wings are attached to their backs.
Behaviorally, flying foxes and microbats exhibit different feeding habits. Flying foxes are primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits, nectar, and pollen. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal and pollination, making them ecologically important species. Microbats, however, have a more diverse diet that includes insects, small mammals, birds, fish, and even blood from larger mammals in the case of vampire bats. Many microbats use echolocation to navigate and find prey in darkness, emitting high-pitched sounds that bounce off objects and return as echoes. Flying foxes do not possess this ability and rely on their keen eyesight for navigation.
Habitat preferences also differ between these two groups. Flying foxes are generally found in tropical and subtropical regions, inhabiting forests, woodlands, and urban areas where fruit trees are abundant. They often roost in colonies that can number in the thousands, hanging upside down from tree branches or building structures. Microbats, however, have a broader geographical distribution, spanning temperate to tropical zones. They prefer caves, crevices, and man-made structures like buildings and bridges for roosting and often live solitarily or in small groups.
In summary, while both flying foxes and microbats are members of the order Chiroptera, they exhibit significant differences in taxonomy, physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat preferences. Understanding these distinctions is essential for appreciating the diversity and ecological roles of these fascinating mammals.