Bat Zone in Bloomfield Hills adds flying foxes

Malaysian Flying Fox is largest species of bat in the world

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MICHIGAN – Yes, there are giant bats. And yes, they're now in metro Detroit!

The Organization for Bat Conservation announced today that two new Malayan Flying Foxes—the largest species of bat found in the world—are the latest additions to its Bat Zone in Bloomfield Hills.

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The two new bats, Tom and Fred, are 15 and 16 years old and recently arrived from California's Oakland Zoo. The Malayans were having problems with allergies and arthritis at the zoo and needed a new home that could better care for their conditions. "The boys," as they are called by OBC's animal care staff, are inquisitive and intelligent animals who are curious about their new home and the visitors who come to see them. They are often seen coming to the glass to greet children and adults and seem at ease in their new surroundings.

The Bat Zone is open to the public for tours throughout the summer, 12:30 and 2:30 pm Monday-Saturday and 1:30 and 2:30 pm on Sundays. Tickets are $5 ($4 members) with Cranbrook Institute of Science admission.

For more information, visit www.batconservation.org.


About the Author:

Ken Haddad has proudly been with WDIV/ClickOnDetroit since 2013. He also authors the Morning Report Newsletter and various other newsletters, and helps lead the WDIV Insider team. He's a big sports fan and is constantly sipping Lions Kool-Aid.