Seasonal variation in the diet of the bat Carollia perspicillata (Chiroptera : Phyllostomidae) in an Atlantic forest area in southeastern Brazil

Carollia perspicillata feeds primarily on plants of the family Piperaceae, as reported in the literature. Although this preference occurs throughout this species' geographic range, in some situations they may eat other items. This study analyzed variations in the feeding habits of this bat species over an I-month period. Although C perspicillata consumed mostly Piper plants, they also ate other fruits (e.g. Cecropia and Solanum plants), and insects as well. Food choice followed a seasonal pattern, related to the availability of Piper plants. The seasonal absence of these fruits may have necessitated bats to eat alternative items.