Feeding strategies of Malaysian nectarivorous bats [Macroglossus minimus, M. sobrinus and Eonycteris spelaea] include trap-line foraging and territorial defense of resources. A high initial-visit rate with a subsequent leveling off of activity by bat pollinators is related to nectar parceling mechanisms of Oroxylum indicum (Bignoniaceae) flowers. Differing temporal patterns of visitation to Durio zibethinus, Parkia and Musa acuminata reflect different flowering strategies. Patterns of visitation to flowers may provide a useful comparative measure of bat pollination energetics in the New and Old World tropics.