Guangzhou Chimelong Birds Park has unveiled its first public showcase of the world's largest bats—the Malayan Flying Fox (Pteropus vampyrus) and the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus medius). As the only conservation institution in China currently exhibiting these two species, the park has successfully established one of the country's largest and most sustainable flying fox populations.
In the new exhibit, visitors can observe the impressive Malayan Flying Fox, whose nearly two-meter wingspan is striking in flight and whose folded, cloak-like wings resemble dark leather when resting. Nearby, the smaller Indian Flying Fox, with its reddish-brown fur and fox-like face, adds a more agile presence to the habitat.
According to Chimelong bird conservation expert Yan Gancai, the Malayan Flying Fox is one of the world's largest bat species, found mainly in Indonesia and Malaysia. Illegal hunting has caused a sharp population decline, earning it an "Endangered" (EN) status on the IUCN Red List. Wild populations now face severe survival pressures.
Yan noted that the Chimelong team overcame challenges such as climate adaptation and diet development by meticulously simulating natural habitats, building dedicated flight spaces, and creating specialized nutrition plans. The team established strong trust with the animals, enabling both species to successfully breed in the year following their introduction.
To date, the park has bred more than 181 Malayan Flying Foxes and 48 Indian Flying Foxes, forming a healthy, sustainable population of nearly 230 individuals.
These flying foxes are known as "ecosystem engineers" of tropical forests. By feeding on nectar and dispersing seeds, they play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting forest renewal. "They are not the 'fearsome creatures' of folklore but essential partners in nature," said He Zhanzhao, Deputy General Manager of Chimelong Birds Park.
Through behavior demonstrations and educational programs, the park aims to help visitors understand the ecological importance of flying foxes and encourage greater public participation in wildlife protection.
The "Birds Flying Mystery" zone, which includes the flying fox exhibit, is set to complete an upgrade by New Year's Day 2026, offering visitors enhanced interactive experiences.
Author | Liu Lingzhi
Photo | Wang Juntao, Nanfang Plus
Editor | Wei Shen, James Campion, Shen He
