The Flying Fox in Singapore 2024-2025

If not for the wings, you might think that this is a real fox hanging upside down from a tree

Best time: November–January

Singapore Zoo provides a shelter for the world's largest species of bats. Although its most common name is the large flying fox it's also known as Malayan or Malaysian flying fox, large fruit bat and kalang or kalong.

In spite of its name, its diet is completely different from that of a real fox. Large flying fox is actually a vegetarian and feeds exclusively on fruits, flowers and nectar. Therefore, it usually inhabits fruit trees. Hence comes its name of a large fruit bat. Flying foxes' weight varies from 0.65 to 1.1 kg, and wingspread reaches 1.5 metres. In the past locals used to trap them, as their meat is quite tasty, however, today they belong to endangered species. The best time to observe the creatures is from November to January during their breeding season.

Practical info

When is the breeding season for flying foxes in Singapore zoo?

You can observe the flying foxes in Singapore Zoo during their breeding season, which is from November to January. It is a time when they are more active and come out during the daytime. The zoo offers the largest population of flying foxes during this period. It is also an opportunity to witness their child-rearing behavior, making it an unforgettable experience.

Where can we view the world’s largest species of bats in Singapore Zoo?

The Fragile Forest enclosure located behind the Night Safari in Singapore Zoo houses the world's largest fruit bats. These creatures are commonly known as flying foxes. The special exhibit provides them with a communal habitat, which accommodates up to 120 individuals that fly freely within the enclosure. Do not miss the chance to see these unique creatures that play an important role in distributing plant seeds in their natural habitat.

What are the eating habits of flying foxes?

Flying foxes are not foxes, nor carnivorous mammals, but large fruit bats that feed on fruit, flowers, and nectar. These creatures inhabit gardens, fruit orchards, and forests, playing an essential role in reforestation by distributing plant seeds. Hence, their common name - large fruit bats. Keep in mind that their primary source of food is fruit and nectar rather than insects or other animals.

What is the average weight of a flying fox?

Depending on the subspecies, a flying fox can weigh from 0.65 to 1.1 kg. The Malayan flying fox, also called the large flying fox, can weigh up to 1.1 kg, making them the largest species of bat on earth. Typically, flying foxes can have wingspans of up to 1.5 metres. These creatures are unique and deserve attention from conservationists due to their size and importance to nature’s balance.

What are the reasons behind the declining population of flying foxes?

Deforestation and hunting are the primary reasons that put flying foxes at risk of extinction. Hunting and trapping the fruit bats were once common among locals, known for their tasty meat. The production of fruit and nectar, their primary food sources, also declined due to climate change. As a result, the population of flying foxes has drastically dropped, making them endangered species. Conservationists should play a significant role in protecting these animals from facing extinction.