Wroughton’s Free-Tailed Bat | 19 Dec 2024

Recently, a rare bat species called Wroughton’s free-tailed bat (Otomops wroughtoni) has been spotted in Delhi’s Yamuna Biodiversity Park.

Wroughton’s Free-Tailed Bat:

It is a highly rare species of molossus bat family.
Conservation Status:
- IUCN: Listed as "Data Deficient".
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Protected under Schedule I.
Geographical Distribution: It is primarily found in the Western Ghats with a single known breeding colony.
- Small colonies also recorded in Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, and a single individual sighted in Cambodia.
Physical Characteristics: It has large size with prominent, large ears extending beyond the muzzle, bicoloured velvet fur and is known for its powerful flying capabilities.
Ecological Role: It plays a critical role in insect population regulation and is known to assist in pollination.
Habitat: It roosts in caves or dark, damp, and slightly warm places, usually in moderate-sized colonies.
Significance:
- Delhi is home to about 14 bat species, including 4 considered locally extinct: the Indian false vampire, black-bearded tomb bat, Egyptian free-tailed bat, and Indian pipistrelle.
- Aravalli Biodiversity Park (Gurugram) is the only known roosting site (rest place) for the Blyth’s horseshoe bat in Delhi NCR.