Fijian mastiff bat
The Fijian mastiff bat (Chaerephon bregullae), also known as the Fijian free-tailed bat, is a species of bat in the family Molossidae. It is found in Fiji and Vanuatu. In 2013, Bat Conservation International listed this species as one of the 35 species of its worldwide priority list of conservation.[2] This species is currently listed as endangered [1] and considered a species of special concern due to habitat fragmentation and cave disturbance. The Fijian free-tailed bat is endemic to Fiji and Vanuatu islands. This species was previously documented on the islands of Taveuni and Vanua Levu, current research indicates possible small fragmented populations inhabiting both islands. Only two insectivorous bats occupy Fiji, the Pacific sheath-tailed bat and the Fijian free-tailed bat. Both species consume night flying insects, foraging high above the canopy.
| Fijian free-tailed bat | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Chiroptera |
| Family: | Molossidae |
| Genus: | Chaerephon |
| Species: | C. bregullae |
| Binomial name | |
| Chaerephon bregullae (Felten, 1964) | |
 | |
Population
Estimated populations of Fijian free-tailed bats are approximately 7,000 individuals globally. Cave disturbance, over harvesting, and deforestation are contributing to population decline throughout the species range.[1]
Habitat
The habitat range and ecology of this species is unknown. Previously, the Fijian free-tailed bat was observed in caves located on the island of Vanuatu. The foraging behavior of this species has been observed in coconut groves, farmland, forest and coastal regions of Fiji.[3]
Conservation
The Fijian free-tailed bat is evaluated as endangered by the IUCN, a species at risk of becoming extinct. The first Fijian bat sanctuary was established in 2018, The National Trust of Fiji acquired Nakanacagi Cave. The Fijian free-tailed bat is considered extirpated from Tonga due to disturbance and overharvesting.[3]
References
- Waldien, D.L.; Scanlon, A.; Thompson, B.L.; Sherwin, R.E.; Naikatini, A.; Tikoca, S. (2019). "Chaerephon bregullae". The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2019: e.T4309A22020149.
- "Annual Report 2013-2014" (PDF). batcon.org. Bat Conservation International. August 2014. Archived from the original (PDF) on July 7, 2017. Retrieved May 1, 2017.
- Palmeirim, Jorge M.; Champion, Alan; Naikatini, Alivereti; Niukula, Jone; Tuiwawa, Marika; Fisher, Martin; Yabaki-Gounder, Mere; Qalovaki, Stanley; Dunn, Thomas (September 2005). Distribution, Status, and Conservation of Bats in the Fiji Islands (PDF) (Report). University of the South Pacific, Fauna & Flora International, and University of Lisbon. Retrieved 27 April 2020.