Spectacled Flying-fox
Pteropus conspicillatus
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Endangered
Listed since: 22/02/2019
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Endangered
Listed since: 27/08/2019
Population trend: Decreasing
Other names: None
Priority Species? Yes
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Spectacled Flying-fox is mostly black with distinctive straw-coloured fur surrounding the eyes, nose and mouth. It is restricted to north-eastern Queensland and is mainly found in areas of rainforest from Cape York to Ingham. Their diet includes fruit of many tree species, pollen, nectar and leaves.
Threats
Historically, the decline of the Spectacled Flying-fox was associated with habitat loss and persecution, however, these impacts have lessen due to the protection that is afforded with being listed as a threatened species. Some of the current threats to this species include cyclones, land clearing and tick paralysis.