Locals in the Rajasthan-Gujrat border area where started after spotting massive bats [also called flying foxes] with wingspan measuring nearly five feet sparking curiosity and some alarm across the region.
Videos of the creatures quickly went viral on social media, with many mistaking them for a dangerous new species. Forest officials, however clarify that the animals are the Indian flying foxes- one of the largest species of bats in the world experts explained that this bats, despite there intimidating size, harmless to humans and play an important ecological role by dispersing seeds and pollinating trees.
The sighting has drawn usually attention because of the size of the bats, with residents comparing there wingspan to the height of an average person. Officials noted that flying foxes are nocturnal and vegetarian, feeding mostly on fruits and nectar.
“They may look frightening but they pose no threat. In fact, they are vital for maintaining the balance of ecosystem,” a forest department officer said. The department had argued people not to harm the bats and avoid spreading misinformation online.
Flying foxes are found in several parts of India, though they are rarely seen in large number. Wildlife experts believed the unusual roosting near the border villages could be due the seasonal changes in food availability.
The episode has also sparked discussions on social media where many users reacted with awe while others expressed the fear. Conservations stressed that protecting the species is essential as there declining could impact local biodiversity.
