What animal is a flying fox? - briefly
A flying fox is not a true fox but rather a type of bat. It is named for its fox-like face and the fact that it can fly.
What animal is a flying fox? - in detail
The term "flying fox" refers to one of the largest species of bats, belonging to the genus Pteropus. These mammals are not actually foxes at all; rather, they are fruit bats native to various regions in Asia and Oceania. Flying foxes are known for their impressive size, with wingspans that can reach up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in some species. Their diet primarily consists of fruits, nectar, and pollen, making them crucial pollinators and seed dispersers in their ecosystems. Despite their name, flying foxes do not have fur resembling a fox; instead, they possess short, dense fur that varies in color among different species, ranging from grey to reddish-brown. These bats are social creatures, often roosting in large colonies in trees and caves, and their numbers can significantly impact the health of local ecosystems.