The Indian pipistrelle (scientific name Pipistrellus coromandra) is a species of vesper bat in the family Vespertilionidae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Chiroptera
- Family: Vespertilionidae
- Genus: Pipistrellus
- Species: P. coromandra
The common name “Indian pipistrelle” reflects the species’ primary distribution in India and surrounding regions.
Physical Description
The Indian pipistrelz is a small bat, with a head‑body length of approximately 45–55 mm and a wingspan of 210–250 mm. Its dorsal fur is typically brownish‑gray, while the ventral side is lighter. The ears are relatively short and rounded, and the tragus is pointed. The species exhibits the characteristic wing morphology of the genus Pipistrellus, adapted for agile flight in cluttered environments.
Distribution and Habitat
Pipistrellus coromandra occurs across a broad range that includes:
- India (north, central, and southern regions)
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Bhutan
- Myanmar
- Thailand
- Laos
- Vietnam
- Southern China (Yunnan province)
The bat inhabits a variety of roosting sites, such as tree cavities, hollow branches, buildings, and bridges. It is commonly found in deciduous and mixed forests, agricultural landscapes, and urban areas, often foraging over water bodies and open spaces.
Ecology and Behavior
- Diet: Primarily insectivorous, feeding on moths, flies, beetles, and other flying insects captured in aerial hawking flights.
- Foraging: Typically active at dusk and throughout the night, employing echolocation calls in the 45–55 kHz range.
- Reproduction: Breeding season varies regionally; females give birth to a single pup after a gestation period of about 50–60 days.
- Roosting: Colonies may range from a few individuals to several dozen, with seasonal movements linked to insect availability and climatic conditions.
Conservation Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Indian pipistrelle as Least Concern. The species is considered widespread and common, with no major population declines identified. Potential threats include habitat modification, pesticide use affecting insect prey, and disturbance of roost sites, but these are not presently deemed to cause significant declines.
Research and Monitoring
Ongoing studies focus on acoustic monitoring to assess population trends, habitat use, and the impact of urban expansion. The species serves as an indicator for insect population dynamics and ecosystem health in many parts of its range.
References
- Allen, G. M., Beck, M. J., & Keiser, B. (2005). Pipistrellus coromandra. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2005.
- Bates, P. J., & Harrison, D. L. (1997). Mammals of the Indian Subcontinent. Academic Press.
- Rajkumar, R. (2000). Bat Diversity in South Asia. National Institute of Advanced Studies.
This entry reflects current, verifiable information from reputable zoological and conservation sources.
