Metabolic Bone Disease in Captive Flying Foxes: A Comprehensive Survey Across Zoological Parks

Abstract

Metabolic bone disease (MBD) is clinically characterized by bone deformities and is associated with vitamin D3 deficiency in diurnal animals. However, the pathogenesis and etiology of this condition in flying foxes, considered nocturnal animals, are poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a survey aimed at various zoological parks housing flying foxes to elucidate the pathogenesis and etiology of MBD in these animals. Our results indicate that vitamin D3 may play a role in preventing metabolic bone disease in flying foxes due to its involvement in calcium absorption. However, these nocturnal animals seem to obtain vitamin D3 primarily through dietary sources in contrast to the cutaneous absorption described in diurnal species. Additionally, our results suggest that an appropriate diet for this species, including fruits, green vegetables, and other protein sources such as animal products and mineral supplementation, could contribute to preventing metabolic bone disease.

Keywords: diet; flying foxes; metabolic bone disease; vitamin D3.

Figure 1

Distribution and number of zoological parks. World map adapted from Slidesgo (Freepik Company, S.L.U., Málaga, Spain).

Figure 2

Number of individuals per species in the zoological parks studied.

Figure 3

Percentage of fruit per color group consumed by flying foxes in the participating parks (x: mean, •: outliers).

Figure 4

Number of flying foxes with access to different light conditions and vitamin D3 supplementation.