Helgen chose the species name flanneryi to honor Dr. Tim Flannery, "in recognition of his studies of Melanesian mammals.

Unlike the Bougainville monkey-faced bat, which has an overlapping range, it does not have a large white or yellow patch on its chest.

[2] It has a unique "double canine tooth", which may be used in conjunction with their powerful jaws to break open coconuts.

[1] Some of the islands on which it is found have been assessed as highly susceptible to environmental impacts by climate change, which could threaten the species.

[8] Conservation actions identified by Bat Conservation International include identifying alternate protein sources for indigenous peoples so that they do not have to rely on bushmeat, creating native tree nurseries for reforestation efforts, mitigating conflicts between the fruit-eating bats and farmers seeking to protect their crops, and engaging the community more frequently in conservation dialogue.

Researchers seeking to work in Kunua Plains & Mount Balbi Key Biodiversity Area will pay the Rotokas people for access to their land, hire guides and porters from local villages, and purchase their produce locally to provide income for the Rotokas people.