epauletted fruit bat

bat species

Also known as: Epomophorus wahlbergi

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The epauletted fruit bat is a type of African fruit bat belonging to the genus Epomophorus. These bats are part of the larger family of Old World fruit bats (Pteropodidae). A distinguishing feature of the male epauletted fruit bat is the presence of shoulder glands adorned with tufts of white hair. Unlike many other bat species, Old World fruit bats, including the epauletted fruit bat, primarily rely on their vision for navigation rather than echolocation.123

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Old World fruit bat
…of the family are the epauletted fruit bats (Epomophorus), in which the male has tufts of pale hair on the shoulders, and the hammer-headed fruit bat (Hypsignathus monstrosus), which has a large, blunt muzzle and pendulous lips.
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…of the family are the epauletted fruit bats (Epomophorus), in which the male has tufts of pale hair on the shoulders, and the hammer-headed fruit bat (Hypsignathus monstrosus), which has a large, blunt muzzle and pendulous lips.
Read More