The species requires a very specific roosting habitat of limestone caves in lowland area with an elevation range of a sea level to 480 m, and with small entrances which, in most cases, are underground (Douangboubpha et al. 2010). The surrounding vegetation included a range of forest types; hill evergreen, mixed deciduous, dipterocarp, bamboo and mangrove (Douangboubpha et al. 2010). The species does not travel more than 2 km from the cave to forage. It is unlikely that there is any mix between the known populations as the areas between them are rice fields which are unsuitable for the species (Waengsothorn et al. 2006).

This species currently is known from northern Thailand (Chiang Mai) to northern peninsular Malaysia (Perlis) (Douangboubpha et al. 2010).

Only five known localities of this species are inside protected area (Douangboubpha et al. 2010). The areas of suitable habitat, particularly the largest population site – Khao Samor Khon, require protection (S Bumrungsri pers. comm).