Large roosts along Enoggera Creek

The grey-headed flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus is a fruit bat native to Australia. They have a large body, 230-290 mm, weigh up to 1 kg and have a maximum wingspan of over 1 m. They are distinguished from other flying-fox species by the grey or white fur on their head, orange neck fur, and leg fur that extends to the ankles. During the day individuals reside in large roosts consisting of hundreds to tens of thousands of individuals. At night, the bats travel up to 50 km to feed on blossom, nectar and fruit. Breeding occurs in March and April. The species is endemic to the eastern forested areas of Australia, principally east of the Great Dividing Range.

PHOTO Andrew Mercer (www.baldwhiteguy.co.nz)

Photo: Anna Greig