Up to 6,300 large flying foxes were spotted in Maitum, Sarangani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12) reported.

DENR-12 said the bats were documented during monitoring on October 22, 2025.

The monitoring took place in the evening when the bats were observed either resting or preparing to swarm.

DENR-12 said the bats’ movement appeared normal as these fruit bats often relocate in search of food or due to disturbances in their environment.

“The Large Flying Fox is a fruit- and nectar-eating bat that helps nature by carrying, spreading seeds and pollinating trees. They can fly very far up to 50 kilometers each night — to look for fruits and flowers,” DENR-12 said.

DENR-12 said the high number of bats recorded reflects the healthy environmental conditions in the town, which provide ample food sources and suitable habitats.

“These winged mammals easily move when their surroundings change, it is important to keep enough fruiting and flowering trees nearby; protect tall trees where they can safely rest; avoid cutting trees or disturbing their roosting areas,” DENR-12 added.