3 days Ago By Times Now Digital
A rare bat species, Wroughton’s Free-tailed Bat has been found in DDA Yamuna Biodiversity Park in New Delhi. It can only be found in three places in the world, including small colonies in Meghalaya's Jaintia Hills and Cambodia, according to biodiversity expert Faiyaz A. Khudsar.
Wroughton was first described in 1913 by a British zoologist DR M R Oldfield Thomas, well recognised for its large size, and prominent ears which extend beyond its muzzle, varying its velvety fur. It is also bicoloured, said Khudsar. The species primarily roost in caves or dark, damp species in moderate colony sizes.
There is little to no information available on its feeding habits but its distribution likely suggests that it consumes a variety of insects and can fly long distances while foraging. Khudsar emphasised Delhi's diversified habitats, which range from restored wetlands and floodplain forests in the Yamuna Biodiversity Park to specialist niches in the Aravalli Biodiversity Park. They have played an important role in supporting unique bat species.
For example, the Aravalli Biodiversity Park is the only known roosting location for Blyth's Horseshoe Bat in the city, he said. Delhi is home to around 14 species of bats, though several of them have not been spotted in recent years and are considered locally extinct, he added. Khudsar highlighted that bats are masters of the night sky.
They play an essential role in the maintenance of the ecological balance. For instance, frugivorous bats contribute to pollination and seed dispersal which often supports plant species across various habitats. Insectivorous bats are vital in controlling the insect population as they consume millions of insects nightly.
Khudsar described the recent sighting of the rare species at the DDA Yamuna Biodiversity Park in early December as a remarkable discovery. "This discovery also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems, where even the smallest creatures, like bats, play pivotal roles in sustaining biodiversity and ecological health." Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Delhi and around the world.
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