The Pemba flying fox has a wingspan of 1.6 metres (5 ft 3 in) and is one of the largest species of fruit bat.

Roosts occur in large trees in both primary and secondary forest, among mangroves, and in traditional graveyards.

[3] Colonies of the Pemba flying fox roost during the day in large trees, emerging at dusk to forage for fruit such as figs, mangoes and breadfruit.

Conservation measures implemented by the Forestry Department on Pemba include an education campaign, the establishment of wildlife clubs to protect nearby roosts, and continuous monitoring of the population.

The local population has been involved in conservation measures and bat-based ecotourism is producing extra revenue for the island.