Abstract
A reconnaissance survey was carried out to investigate the roosting, foraging and mating behaviour of the Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus) in Rourkela, Odisha during 20th February 2016-5th March 2017. A total of 8 roosting sites were identified, Parks (1), temples (3), police stations (2), courts (1), and on the bank of the Koel river. They roosted on 19 tree species belonging to 18 genera and 11 families. Roost size varied from 43 to 6141 individuals, depending on the habitat and preferred tree species. It was found that they forage both in groups as well as alone. They foraged twice a day. Their diet included fruits, nectar and petals of some flowers, belonging to 23 species 21 genera and 12 families. Two mating seasons were recorded. During the mating process, male tried to approach the female and fanned its patagium and spread it around the female, trying to hold her, but the female tried to escape from the male. Male copulated successfully for 20-42 seconds. Females involved in copulation gave birth to young ones around April-June with a gestation period of 145-160 days . Maternal care was observed. Tactile communication was observed between mother and the Pup. Pups became matured within 1.5 years.
Published Version
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