Wambat specimen photograph
EndangeredMammal-Mixes

Vombatus chiroptera

Wambat

Discovery LocationTasmanian Caves
Lead ResearcherB. Wayne

Field Report Summary

The only flying marsupial capable of powered flight, the Wambat emerges at dusk to graze on tree roots and insects. Its heavy bone structure makes flight energy-intensive, so it glides when possible. They roost in cave ceilings, holding on with modified claws.

Physical Description

Robust Wombat body with leathery bat wings.

Habitat

Temperate Caves

Dietary Behavior

Omnivore

Evolutionary Origin

Cavernous niche expansion

Behavioral Notes

Produces cubic guano pellets.

Citation: B. Wayne. Field observations of Vombatus chiroptera (Wambat).The Index of Fictitious Fauna, Ainamals Research Institute.