This may be a partly diurnal species. Animals generally spend the day in small, quiet colonies in smaller trees (Bani 1992). It has been found feeding on fruits and inflorescences of a range of species including figs, Syzygium sp., Barringtonia edulis, breadfruit, and coconuts (Flannery 1995). Births are believed to take place in August and September. Individuals are usually seen roosting in small groups of a few animals, in trees. It does not disperse well, and may not recolonise following extirpation episodes.

This species is endemic to Vanuatu, and is recorded with certainty from: Vanua Lava, Santa Maria (Gaua), Mota Lava, Pentecost, Aore, Malakula, Ambrym, Epi, Efate, Erromango, Anatom, Espirito Santo, Maewo, Ureparapara, Malo, Emao, Emae, Lopevi, Tongoa, Nguna, and Aoba. It is possibly extinct on Tana Island. Recent surveys (2018) on Vanua Lava and Mota failed to record the species, however survey was of few locations over a short period of time (T. Lavery pers. comm.). 

Given the species limited dispersal capabilities, the Vanuatu Flying Fox population is considered to be severely fragmented in Vanuatu (estimate 5-8 locations) and appears to be comprised of a number of morphologically well-differentiated subspecies on islands separated by only moderate distances. It is a lowland species, although the upper elevation limit appears to be undocumented.  

This species is listed on Appendix II of CITES. It is present in the Vatthe Conservation Area. Studies into the taxonomic status of the many subspecies of this species are needed. Further research into the distribution, population size and trends, ecology, and threats to it is needed.