A range extension and first voucher echolocation call for the New Guinea Big-eared Bat, Pharotis imogene (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae)

Records of the Australian Museum 2026 Open access

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Authors: Iain A. Woxvold, Kyle N. Armstrong, Elyssa M. McLeod, Mellie S. Musonera, Anthony Simms, Stephen J. Richards
DOI: 10.3853/j.2201-4349.78.2026.3006
Cited by: 0
References: 8

Abstract

The New Guinea Big-eared Bat Pharotis imogene is one of the region’s least known mammals, with prior confirmed records from only two localities, both in Central Province, Papua New Guinea. We report the recent capture of a Pharotis imogene from Kuriva Forestry Station, approximately 50 km north of Port Moresby, extending the species’ known range more than 130 km northwest of its previous limit. We describe and illustrate the new specimen and its habitat and provide the first description of this species’ echolocation call.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Bat Biology and Ecology Studies Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Avian ecology and behavior

Publication details

Journal / source
Records of the Australian Museum
Volume
78
Issue
1
Pages
69–76
Publication date
5 March 2026
Language
EN