The bats of Kaaba
Kaaba is a small, uninhabited island, situated within the Komodo national park, which is often visited on Wicked Diving’s liveaboard trips aboard the Jaya and the Bali Prima.
While Kaaba itself is a picturesque island with good snorkeling and pretty beach, the main attraction is the residents of the neighboring mangroves. Inhabited by flying foxes, the mangroves provide spectators with a daily display of one of nature’s wonders.
As the sun begins to set over the islands, boats moor close to the mangroves to witness the migration of these flying foxes. In their thousands they leave the mangroves in search of food. It is a truly breathtaking experience viewed by most in awe and silence. Slow to start, the tempo rises and these bats continue to leave the mangroves in hoards as the sky blackens and the sun slips away.
Otherwise known as fruit bats, flying foxes feed primarily on fruit and other vegetation throughout the night, before returning to the mangroves at sunrise for sleep. Their feeding range can be up to 40km, so it is possible they may even venture into Labuan Bajo and the surrounding area in search of sustenance.
It really is another of Komodo’s little secrets which make the park so much more than just a dive destination. Natural diversity, stunning ‘end of the world-esque’ scenery and brilliant blue waters offer so many opportunities whether you are a diver, snorkeler or an old fashioned adventurer.
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