Bismarck masked flying fox
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Through Endemism
Taxonomy
The Bismarck masked flying fox was described as a new species in 1867 by German naturalist Wilhelm Peters. Prior to 1995, the Bismarck masked flying fox was largely considered a subspecies of the Temminck's flying fox (Pteropus temminckii).
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Description
Its forearm length is 109–118 mm (4.3–4.6 in).
Biology and ecology
It is one of the rare species of mammals in which the males can lactate. It is generally solitary, though males and females may roost together in pairs.
Range and habitat
The Bismarck masked flying fox is endemic to Papua New Guinea where it has been documented at a range of elevations from 0–1,200 m (0–3,937 ft) above sea level.
Conservation
As of 2021, it is evaluated as a vulnerable species by the IUCN. It meets the criteria for this designation because it has a small population size, likely numbering fewer than 10,000 mature individuals. It is experiencing significant habitat loss and population decline.