Fauna
Mammal

Fierce Roundleaf Bat

Hipposideros dinops

Also known as Fierce Leaf-nosed Bat, Large Solomon Leaf-nosed Bat

Fierce roundleaf bats emerge after nightfall from limestone caverns and mine adits to hunt in dense tropical canopies. Equipped with an elaborate fleshy noseleaf, they project complex echolocation calls to pinpoint hard-shelled beetles and moths amidst foliage. Roosting colonies remain deeply sensitive to microclimate shifts and light disruption, gathering in dark recesses where humidity remains steadily high.

NocturnalCave DwellerEcholocating
Fierce Roundleaf Bat reference
Chermundy / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
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—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyBeetles, Moths, Katydids
Predators
  • Barn owls
  • Tree snakes
  • Raptors
ThreatsForest clearance for logging, cave disturbance, limestone and nickel mining
HabitatsLowland tropical rainforest, karst caves, old-growth foothills
Life span10–15 years
Classification
  1. FamilyHipposideridae
  2. SpeciesHipposideros dinops
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Bats can harbor zoonotic pathogens and deliver defensive bites if seized; avoid handling.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses powerful jaws capable of inflicting deep puncture wounds, alongside potential transmission of bat-borne lyssaviruses or other zoonoses.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by its exceptionally large size among roundleaf bats, dark brown fur, and broad, complex nasal disc.
What to do
Never attempt to capture or touch roosting bats; contact a wildlife specialist if an injured animal is found.
What to notice
Distinguished by large bodily dimensions, absence of lateral leaflets on its noseleaf, and deep roost preferences in damp caverns.
Support conservation
Maintain complete quiet and brief dwell times when visiting cave environments to protect vulnerable colonies.
Responsible observation
  • Cave Etiquette: Keep lights subdued and use red beams to prevent disturbing daytime roosts.
  • Distance Keeping: Never touch or handle grounded bats to prevent defensive bites and stress.
  • Detection: Listen for low chittering and ultrasonic chatter around cave entrances at dusk.
Related species
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