This footage was filmed and produced 16 August 2023.

In a heartwarming moment, Vienna's historic Schoenbrunn Zoo welcomed the birth of three endangered megabats within their rainforest enclosure. The zookeepers were thrilled by the sight of the large flying fox offspring, Pteropus vampyrus, as they curiously explored their surroundings alongside their mother.

The megabats, boasting an impressive wingspan of around 1.70 meters (5.6 feet), are among the largest bat species globally and are native to south Asia. Despite their formidable size, these gentle creatures rely on their keen sense of smell and large eyes rather than echolocation for navigation and feeding.

The attentive care of female large flying foxes was highlighted by Anton Weissenbacher, Head of the Zoological Department, who explained that they create a unique "hammock" with their wings to catch their young offspring after birth. These remarkable bats play a crucial role in reforestation by dispersing seeds as they travel long distances in search of food.

Samantha Cloer, an animal keeper, shed light on the feeding habits of these remarkable creatures, emphasizing their diet of fruit, pollen, nectar, and flowers. The young bats nurse for several months before transitioning to solid food and attempting their first flights.

Visitors eager to witness this extraordinary species can explore the upper floor of the rainforest enclosure while renovations continue on the ground floor. The Schoenbrunn Zoo looks forward to sharing new animal highlights after the completion of the renovation, offering a thrilling experience for all who appreciate the wonders of nature.