Madagascar Flying Foxes Shrinking Over Decades

A new study published in the Journal of Mammalogy reports that flying foxes in Madagascar have become smaller over the past several decades. Scientists believe this shrinking may be connected to increased commercial hunting of the species.

The study, conducted by researchers at the Field Museum in Chicago, compared museum specimens with modern observations. They found that older specimens were larger than current individuals of the same species.

Lead researcher Emily Cornelius Ruhs noted that the size difference was unexpected. She initially thought the results might be due to errors in analysis, but the data clearly showed a trend of shrinking bats.

The study also examined 121 museum specimens collected over 150 years. Analysis of skull and tooth measurements revealed a sharp decline in size around 1980, coinciding with the rise of commercial hunting.

While the study shows a correlation between shrinking bats and increased hunting, it does not prove causation. Researchers suggest that larger bats may be more vulnerable to hunters, as they provide more meat.

The findings highlight the role of historical museum collections in understanding long-term ecological changes. Scientists emphasize the need for stronger protections, especially at breeding sites, to prevent population collapse.