Orange Leaf-nosed Bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia)

The Orange Leaf-Nosed Bat (Photographer: Unknown)


Orange leaf-nosed bats are vulnerable due to diminishing availability of nesting sites and a loss of food (due to the clearing of feeding sites. This species is sensitive to the presence of humans and will leave a roosting site after is has been tampered with. Due to this species’ avoidance of humans, there is limited information on the behavior and reproductive activities of the orange leaf-nosed bat. The Northern Territory is known to have a significant population of orange leaf-nosed bats.

Orange leaf-nosed bats have orange fur, a distinctly leafed-nose, and ears that are sort and pointy. This species averages 9g in weight and a 50mm head and body measurement. There is no tail present.

Meals consist of various insects that are caught in mid-flight. Feeding occurs near roads and open grasslands.

The only information available on the breeding habits of the orange leaf-nosed bat is that young are born during the rainy months.

Further Information on the Orange Leaf-nosed Bat:

Bibliography

A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia, Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. ©2001.

Orange Leaf-nosed Bat, Australian Museum, 8/10/04, www.amonline.net.au/bats/records/bat22/htm.