Notes of bats in Pulau Bidong and Pulau Perhentian Besar, Terengganu

Abstract

The study of bats was conducted in Pulau Bidong and Pulau Perhentian Besar from 31st May to 7th July and 13th to 20th August 2015. This study aimed to document the first record of bats and to construct a checklist in for these two off-coast islands in South China Sea. Standard mist nets and harp traps were used throughout the study. A total of 116 individuals comprised of ten species of bats were captured. The most abundant species of chiropterans for both islands was Cynopterus brachyotis with 74 individuals whereas the least was Eonycteris spelaea with only one individual. Two species; Rhinolophus lepidus and Hipposideros cineraceus were new records for Pulau Perhentian Besar. A long-term study covering other areas and habitat types within Pulau Perhentian Besar and the surrounding islands will definitely increase the bats records in the future.