A long-distance flight of the Pilbara diamond-faced bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia) recorded via an automated VHF radio telemetry system

There is little information on movement and foraging patterns of the Pilbara diamond-faced bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia), which is formally recognised as a major research priority for the species. An automated VHF radio telemetry system was used to track bat movement in the central Hamersley Ranges over 21 days during the dry season. Individuals were confirmed travelling an average of 4.88 km (+/- 6.96) from their roost each night and a cumulative average distance of 7.02 km (+/- 8.70). Notably, a female was recorded traveling similar to 40 km between two isolated ranges on two consecutive nights, demonstrating the long-range abilities of the species.