Long-tongued nectar bat

The long-tongued nectar bat, also known by various names such as the northern blossom bat, honey nectar bat, and least blossom-bat, is a captivating species of megabat. Scientifically named Macroglossus minimus, this bat is one of the smallest members of the Pteropodidae family, typically measuring between 60 and 85 mm in length. Its reddish-brown fur is relatively long, especially on the abdomen, and features a distinctive dark brown stripe running down the top of its head and back.

Macroglossus minimus boasts a broad geographical range, inhabiting regions such as Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, the southern Philippines, Java, Borneo, New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and northern Australia. Notable sightings include areas like Kota Kinabalu in Borneo and Brunei. These bats primarily feed on nectar and pollen, making them vital pollinators for various tree species in Peninsular Malaysia.

Regarding their biology, males constitute 53% of observed captures, with sexually active males displaying enlarged testes. The breeding period for females lasts between 140 and 160 days, including approximately 120 days of gestation followed by 60 to 70 days of lactation. In some regions, females can produce two to three offspring annually, with the species reproducing aseasonally and synchronously, depending on food availability.

Juvenile bats grow rapidly, with forearm length increasing by about 0.24 mm per day and body weight rising by around 0.07 g per day. Adult bats typically have a head and body length of 60–85 mm, a forearm length of 40–43 mm, and weigh between 12 and 18 grams. Macroglossus minimus is both shorter and lighter compared to another bat species, Macroglossus sobrinus.