A rare sighting of a native Australian bat in New Zealand has surprised experts and locals.
Gwen Gridley of Blenheim discovered the little red flying fox, a bat species not seen in New Zealand for almost a century, in her backyard. This bat, which Gridley named “Batula,” is only the second recorded instance of the species in the country. The first was in 1926 near Hamilton.
Biosecurity New Zealand believes the bat likely arrived on its own or possibly as a stowaway on a ship. The bat was found dead a few days later, and experts have confirmed its identity. The bat was significantly larger than New Zealand’s native bats, weighing 250 grams compared to the 10-15 grams typical of local species.
The bat’s remains have been sent to Massey University for further study. Although it’s unclear how the bat traveled over 2,000 kilometers from Australia, it may have been carried by strong winds or hidden on a cargo ship. Despite the sad outcome, Gridley felt fortunate to have witnessed such a rare event and hopes Batula will find a permanent home at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa.“
OMG adorable she must be tiny
make sure you dont stand on her
i love my big poopy bum
this dog is so small and CUTE!!!!!! im gonna DIE!!!!
This is such a cute doggy! 9.1 cm is so cool. Having that type of dog, you’re holding the World Record for your dog, you’re the World Record holder, well, for you dog that is. Also how does it feel like to having the World’s Shortest Dog? That must be awesome taking care of a beautiful girl. Pearl!
i like dogs cuz theyre ugly and go woof barks bark woof-oof chuawahs are smaller than my big toe woof bye *barks*
I’d rather look at this then random stuff. This is so COOL! That must be awesome to have some type of dog!
That dog is so small!OMG!
not only is it the smallest dog its also the cutest :0 🙂
That us the cutest chihuahua ever!!! Omg imma dieeeeee
😍😍😍😍😍😍😍