Why in the News? 

The Wroughton’s free-tailed bat, a rare species of molossus bat, has been spotted at the Delhi Development Authority (DDA)’s Yamuna Biodiversity Park. 

What You Need to Know? 

• Wroughton’s free-tailed bat is primarily found in the Western Ghats, with only one known breeding colony. 
• Small colonies have also been observed in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, and a lone individual was recorded in Cambodia. 
• This bat plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations and is also involved in pollination. 

Key Features 

• The bat is large, with prominent ears extending beyond the muzzle and bicoloured velvet fur. 
• It typically roosts in caves or dark, damp, and warm places in moderate colonies. 
• The species is known for its powerful flying abilities, enabling it to forage over long distances. 

IUCN Status 

• Initially considered critically endangered due to a single population in the Western Ghats until 2000. 
• Following discoveries in three additional locations, the species is now listed as "data deficient" on the IUCN Red List. 
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