Big Fruit Bat

scientific name

Artibeus jamaicensis

adaptations/coloration

Color: upper parts dull brownish, grayish or black with silvery tinge; underparts usually paler; whitish facial stripes usually present
Fur: short; very soft;velvety

behavior

Roost: small groups
Harems: harem group & groups of bachelor males & non-reproductive females have been observed; older, larger males have the largest harems

reproduction/lifespan

Lifespan: 10+ years recorded in captivity
Implantation: delayed implantation; September through November
Breeding: 2 reproductive peaks, March through April & July through August; in some areas,
year -round
Birth: 1 ( twins rare); females may gather in groups prior to giving birth

diet

Wild: primarily fruit (figs, mangos, avocados,bananas); pollen; nectar; lower parts; insects
Zoo: fruits; canned primate diet
food passes through digestive tract in 15 - 20 minutes; important as seed dispersal agents

habitat/range

mostly in moist open areas; roosting in houses and caves; central Mexico to Paraguay and central Brazil; throughout Greater and Lesser Antilles, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas and Lower Florida Keys

status

not listed at this time

oregon zoo exhibit

Africa Rain Forest

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