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