Mammals
Marianas Flying Fox
Pteropus mariannus · also called Mariana fruit bat, fanihi
In the afternoon light over a Pacific island forest, a fanihi glides between limestone cliffs, one of a fruit bat species that has become rare across the islands it once filled.
Overview
The Marianas flying fox, Pteropus mariannus, is an Endangered fruit bat of the Mariana Islands and nearby islands in the western Pacific. Its cultural importance as the fanihi, partly daytime activity, and steep decline from hunting and forest loss make it one of the most threatened flying foxes in the Pacific.
A bat with deep cultural roots
For the people of the Mariana Islands the fanihi is both a traditional food and a cultural symbol, which is why its decline is so closely watched.
Status
Endangered, with a decreasing population.
Marianas Flying Fox: common questions
What is the fanihi?
Fanihi is the Chamorro name for the Marianas flying fox, an Endangered fruit bat of the Mariana Islands.
Why is the Marianas flying fox endangered?
It has declined sharply from hunting for food and from loss of the forests it depends on.
Is the Marianas flying fox active in the day?
It is sometimes seen flying in daylight as well as at night.
Where is the Marianas flying fox found?
It lives in island forest on the Mariana Islands and nearby islands in the western Pacific.