Hypsignathus – Hammer-headed bat

One of the most distinctive species of fruit bat, native to the equatorial forests of Africa. This bat is famous for its striking appearance, particularly the male’s large, box-like head and laryngeal air sacs that inflate during vocalization, contributing to its unique facial profile. The purpose of these adaptations is primarily for mating displays; the males use their enlarged throats and lips to amplify their calls, which attract females and assert dominance over other males.

Hammer-headed bats are the largest bats in Africa, with males significantly larger than females—a phenomenon known as sexual dimorphism. Males can have a wingspan of up to 3 feet, while females are generally smaller. The fur of these bats ranges from brown to grey, and they possess broad wings that are suited for slow, maneuverable flight under the forest canopy, allowing them to adeptly navigate through dense foliage.

These bats are frugivorous, meaning their diet consists mainly of fruits. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem as pollinators and seed dispersers, helping to maintain the health and regeneration of the forest. At dusk, hammer-headed bats can be seen flying along river corridors where they search for fruit trees, their large eyes and keen sense of smell guiding them to their food sources.

Socially, hammer-headed bats are known for their lek mating system, where males gather in specific areas known as leks and compete to attract females through vocal displays and odors. This behavior is quite rare among bats and adds to the intrigue of this peculiar species. During these displays, a male’s air sacs are inflated, and his honking calls echo through the forest, creating a chorus that can be heard from great distances.