Identification:
This species is the largest bat in the Vespertilionidae family. The wing membranes are uniformly black. The interfemoral membrane (uropatagium) is dark black on the dorsal side and lighter black on the ventral side. The tail is long and extends approximately 6mm beyond the interfemoral membrane. The dorsal fur is a uniform gray-brown color; the ventral fur is a darker gray-brown color. The inner edge of the ear is covered with long hairs.
Biology and Ecology:
This bat species typically inhabits mountainous forest habitats with oak and beech trees belonging to the Fagaceae family. Females usually become pregnant in April, giving birth from May to July. They give birth to one offspring per litter, once a year.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Kim Hy (Bac Kan), Na Hang (Tuyen Quang), Cuc Phuong (Ninh Binh), and Phong Nha-Ke Bang (Quang Binh).
- Global: India, China, Laos, and Northeast Thailand.
Value:
This bat species is rare in Vietnam and has significant scientific value.
Conservation Status:
Widespread but with a low population. The population and distribution of this bat species are severely declining due to hunting and habitat destruction.
Conservation Rating:
VU A1c,d B2 b,c,e (Vulnerable)
Conservation Measures:
Listed in the Vietnam Red Book (2000) and the IUCN Red List (2000). Hunting and detrimental impacts on this species in Kim Hy (Bac Kan), Na Hang (Tuyen Quang), Cuc Phuong (Ninh Binh), and Phong Nha-Ke Bang (Quang Binh) need to be prevented.