Ghost Bat
Scientific Name: Macroderma gigas
Size: Head-Body 98–118 mm; Forearm 96–113 mm
What does it look like?
The Ghost Bat has pale brown or pale greyish fur above and greyish-white on underside, with skin of wing and tail membranes creamish-brown. Ears large, joining together in middle, and nose with fleshy leaf shape on top of snout.
Where is it found?
Widespread but heavily fragmented, with subpopulations throughout northern Australia.
What are its habitats & habits?
The Ghost Bat occurs in range of habitats, including rainforests and grassy woodland. Roosts by day in colonies in caves and rocky crevices, emerging at night to feed on small vertebrates, such as birds, mammals (including Orange Leaf-nosed Bat), reptiles, frogs, and large insects.
Interesting facts
Individuals generally darker closer to coast.
This species features in my book A Naturalist’s Guide to the Mammals of Australia
