Hammer-headed bat

The hammer-headed bat (*Hypsignathus monstrosus*) is a megabat native to West and Central Africa.

The hammer-headed bat (Hypsignathus monstrosus) is a megabat native to West and Central Africa. It is the only species in its genus and is known for the male’s enlarged, boxy head and loud honking courtship calls. It is considered the largest bat species in mainland Africa.

Taxonomy and naming

The hammer-headed bat is a megabat in the family Pteropodidae and the only species in the genus Hypsignathus. Its common names refer to the male’s unusual head shape and broad lips.

Physical characteristics

This species shows marked sexual dimorphism, with males much larger than females. Males have an enlarged, box-like head and vocal structures that help produce their distinctive calls, including a large resonating chamber used for honking during mating displays.

Distribution and habitat

The species is found across West and Central Africa, especially in lowland forested regions. It also uses swamps, mangroves, palm forests, and some cultivated areas.

Diet and behaviour

Hammer-headed bats feed mainly on fruit and are associated with figs as well as bananas, guavas, and mangoes. One source also reports flies in its diet. Males gather at leks and produce loud honking sounds to attract females.

Conservation

The species is currently assessed as Least Concern, but it faces threats from habitat loss and hunting in some areas. Some sources also note possible relevance to Ebola virus ecology, though its exact role is not fully established.