Details
Hypsignathus monstrosus
Hammer-headed bat is a mammal associated with forests. It is herbivorous and often found in loose groups. It remains widespread in parts of its range, but local habitat change still matters.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
Its range is represented here by the Afrotropics, where it uses forests. Mobile species may shift habitat use with season, breeding sites, or food availability.
Typical wingspan 70-97 cm, weight 230 g-450 g. It has a small agile rodent-like build, with proportions shaped by its habitat and mode of movement.
It is mostly active at night and often found in loose groups. Spacing, group size, and visibility can change with season, feeding conditions, and breeding activity.
It is herbivorous. Food choice and foraging style are tied to life in forests, so movements often follow available food resources.
As a mammal, it gives birth to live young, and the mother nurses them in cover or within the social group.
Recorded scientifically as Hypsignathus monstrosus. It remains widespread in parts of its range, but local habitat change still matters. In this guide, size, habitat, and activity pattern are useful first clues for recognition.
