This species is always associated with limestone outcrops near rivers and can survive in degraded areas. It always roosts in caves. Weighing around two grams, this tiny bat is reputedly the world's smallest mammal. It is insectivorous and normal foraging range appears to be limited to an area of around 1 km from the roost site (Hutson et al. 2001).

This species occurs in two isolated populations in Thailand and Myanmar. The type locality in Thailand is Kanchanaburi, Ban Sai Yoke (= Yok), cave near the Forestry Station (14''26'N, 8''51'E). The population in Thailand is restricted Sai Yoke District, whereas the population in Myanmar is found in Kayin and Mon states. It potentially occurs further south in Myanmar. Further survey of limestone caves near the Thai-Myanmar border is needed. Its elevational range is from 0-500 m asl.

There is a need for the protection of the cave roosts as most of these roosts are outside protected areas. A survey of the limestone caves just across the Thai border inside Myanmar is required to determine if the species occurs there. Education of monks to prevent burning of incense is also required (P. Bates pers. comm.) as well as improvement of transboundary collaboration on conservation of the species along with transboundary information exchange, and identification and establishment of protected areas (P. Bates pers. comm.).