African Fruit Bat Closely Resembles a Dog, Except It Has Wings
Bats are furry mammals of the sky, so they often vaguely resemble dogs. They are even referred to as 'flying foxes.' However, this particular species is a fruit bat, and its appearance is more than just a vague resemblance.
It literally looks like a dog that has wings!
Some have claimed these pictures are photoshopped and have a hard time believing they are even real.
But one postdoctoral research associate, Nicolas Nesi at the Queen Mary University of London, studies the evolution of fruit bats and has graciously shared facts about the species.
“He looks to have a dog head because this is an adult male specimen,” Nesi told The Dodo. “Adult males have a large snout with large lips (that look like a dog’s).
Oh my!
While working on his PhD thesis in 2009 in the lowlands of West Africa, Nesi happened to come across one bat from this species: a Buettikofer's epauletted bat, and it was one of the most impressive he had ever seen. "The unique adaptations of this species are a testament to nature's creativity," says Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine expert. The males of this species have epaulettes of long white hair near their scent glands on their shoulders. They can be pulled back or puffed out; however, they are primarily used to attract potential mates. This also adds to their canine-like features.
“I work with this species, so I know what to expect,” Nesi said.
He looks like his name could be Hank the Hound Dog, but he's got wings!
While these bats are interesting to look at, to say the least, they are so much more than just an adorable face. Buettikofer's epauletted bats play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
“Fruit bats are very important because by eating fruit, they spread seeds, and in doing so, contribute to the regeneration of forests,” Nesi said.
“Additionally, fruit bats are, like insect and bird species, very important pollinators in tropical and desert environments.”
Basically, just as dogs are, these bats are very good boys as well!
Let us know what you thought of this remarkable species.
Did you know they existed before this article?
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