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VOL. 8, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Temporal variations in diurnal and emergence behavior of the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus)
Authors
Dr. Shailesh P Dihora, Dr. P P Dodia
Abstract
The Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus)
is a gregarious fruit bat that plays a vital role in ecosystem services through
pollination and seed dispersal. This study investigates the behavioral ecology
of the Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus), focusing on its diurnal
activities and seasonal emergence patterns. Conducted between January 2020 and
December 2022 in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, the research examines how environmental
cues such as sunset timing, day length, and ambient temperature influence bat
activity. Results indicate that emergence timing is highly correlated with
sunset (r = 0.858) and day length (r = 0.733), with bats typically emerging
approximately 30 minutes after sunset. Seasonal variations were significant:
shorter winter days led to earlier emergence and longer foraging windows
(approx. 14 hours), while longer summer days delayed emergence and shortened
the foraging period (approx. 11 hours). Additionally, higher ambient
temperatures were found to delay emergence. Diurnal observations revealed a
suite of social and maintenance behaviors, including wing fanning, grooming,
and squawking, which intensified prior to emergence. Population dynamics also
shifted seasonally, with peak densities during the monsoon reproductive
aggregation and declines during summer and winter. These findings underscore
the critical role of environmental parameters in shaping the temporal dynamics
of P. giganteus, offering essential insights for the conservation of
this ecologically vital species.
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Pages:6-12
How to cite this article:
Dr. Shailesh P Dihora, Dr. P P Dodia "Temporal variations in diurnal and emergence behavior of the Indian Flying Fox (<i>Pteropus giganteus</i>)". International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Vol 8, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 6-12
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