Black-bearded Flying Fox (Pteropus melanopogon)

Formerly abundant but now critically endangered. Only one roost remains in the mangroves on Pulau Marsegu, Seram Island with about 200 bats total. Unfortunately this endangered megabat has no legal protection and the one existing colony is also unprotected. Continuing threats include hunting for bushmeat and deforestation. They are one of the largest of the fruit bats weighing up to 2 lbs. Note the short ears (shorter than its muzzle) and the attachment of the wings toward its back instead of the sides. These features along with its massive size help distinguish this species from three other "Pteropus" flying foxes known from Seram.