Distribution and Population Status of Pteropus medius and Pteropus hypomelanus Flying Foxes (Mammalia: Chiroptera: Pteropodidae) in Myanmar

Populations of large fruit bats such as flying foxes are declining globally, particularly due to hunting. Monitoring population changes as well as roost characteristics are vital for conservation planning. The distribution and population size of flying foxes (Pteropus spp.) in Myanmar were assessed in the Mandalay Region, Sagaing Region, Mon State (Mawlamyine Township and Kyaikami Township), and Tanintharyi Region (Myeik Township, Thayetchaung Township, Thae Phyu Island) from February 2020 to January 2021. The survey found 12 colonies of P. medius and 3 colonies of P. hypomelanus roosting in 17 tree species. Direct roost counts were used to estimate the population size of these species. The total number of individuals across all study sites was 73,876 for P. medius and 20,458 for P. hypomelanus. The roosting sites of P. medius and P. hypomelanus were at an average elevation of 59.25 m and 25 m, respectively, and close to bodies of water. In total, 66% of P. medius and 61% of P. hypomelanus populations were located within Buddhist temples and public land, respectively. In addition, one-third of their populations occupied private land. Approximately 56% of the total flying fox population was found in areas classified as well-protected and 44% as disturbed. Temples play a crucial role in providing safe roosting habitats for flying foxes in Myanmar as hunting is prohibited in temples. Tall, large canopy trees offer optimum roost sites for flying foxes as they provide more heat dissipation on hot days when flying foxes often experience hyperthermia in full sunlight. Some colonies were found to suffer from hunting or roost tree cutting. Private land is also vital for flying fox survival and conservation efforts need to involve collaboration with private landowners to ensure their protection and survival. This study identifies ecologically important roost characteristics and provides an update on the distribution and population status of Pteropus species in Myanmar.