Photographer Captures Flying Foxes Refreshing Themselves in River

Wildlife photographer Hardik Shelat has documented an extraordinary collection of images featuring flying foxes, also referred to as Indian fruit bats, as they seek respite from the summer warmth by splashing in a river. This unusual event took place in Gujarat, India, where Shelat and his fellow photographers faced temperatures exceeding 110°F to photograph these nighttime animals in a daytime environment. Such sightings are rare since flying foxes usually remain active after dusk, but the extreme heat drove them to look for water during the day.

Shelat’s commitment is clear in his readiness to endure over two hours in the sweltering heat for the ideal shot. As he shared with PetaPixel, the team withstood the blistering sun, maintaining hydration while anticipating the bats’ arrival. Their perseverance was rewarded when the flying foxes came down to cool off, enabling Shelat to capture their impressive wingspans, which can reach nearly 5 feet.

The photographs showcase the bats’ grandeur as they dive toward the water, a seldom-seen perspective that reveals the behavior of one of the largest bat species on the planet. Shelat aspires for his work to foster a greater appreciation for these animals and the difficulties encountered in capturing such a distinctive moment.

To see more of Hardik Shelat’s creations, connect with him on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/hardik_shelat_photography/).