This species is found in dry areas, rarely in evergreen, lowlands forest (Reid 2009). It roosts in large caves and mine tunnels, occasionally in buildings, in groups of 1 to 500 (Ceballos and Oliva 2005). Individuals hang by one or both feet from high ceilings near the roost entrance and do not cluster. This species does not crawl on feet and thumbs like many bats, but can walk rapidly in an upside-down position. Activity starts 1 to 2 hours after sunset; when foraging, flight is slow and maneuverable, usually within 1 m of the ground. Fruit and insects are eaten; animal prey is gleaned by mouth from the ground or vegetation and carried to a night roost (Reid 2009). A second foraging flight occurs about 2 hours before sunrise (Reid 2009).

This species is known from Sonora and Hidalgo (Mexico) south to Guatemala; Bahamas Islands; Jamaica; Cuba; Cayman Islands (northwest of Jamaica); Hispaniola and Beata Islands (Simmons 2005). It occurs from lowlands to 1,400 m (Reid 2009). Records from Guatemala are dubious, as the few known specimens are now lost (McCarthy et al. 1993).

Because of its preference for caves, it is important to prevent access or damages to the caves in the habitats preferred by this species. Found in protected areas in southern Mexico.