The golden-crowned flying fox, a large fruit-eating megabat unique to the Philippines, has a wingspan of about 5’6″ and a body weighing less than 3 pounds. Despite its intimidating appearance, with its lean, hairy body and a black cape resembling a vampire, it is harmless to humans. These bats are primarily nocturnal herbivores, feeding on fruits, roots, and vegetables, and they play a crucial role in reforestation by dispersing fig seeds.

Unfortunately, the golden-crowned flying fox is endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting. Over 90% of the Philippines’ old-growth forests have been destroyed, and the bat has disappeared from many of its former habitats. From 1986 to 2016, their population dropped by 50%, and they are now listed as endangered by the IUCN. Despite legal protections, hunting persists, and bats are often killed while roosting in protected areas.

Although these bats are intelligent and social, often living in large colonies, they are increasingly threatened by human activity. While they do not pose a danger to people, their distinctive looks—large eyes, sharp teeth, and leathery wings—often lead to misconceptions and fear. However, the golden-crowned flying foxes are vital to the ecosystem, and their rapid decline due to human actions is deeply concerning. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these remarkable creatures and their role in the environment.

With a wingspan of roughly 5-foot-6 and a body that ranges in size from seven inches to 11.4 inches and weighs less than 3 pounds, the enormous golden-crowned bat is one of the largest species of bats in the world.