A species of arid areas, with rainfall usually less than 300 mm and with sparse vegetation. This is a true desert species which is adapted to this habitat by having valved nostrils (M. Sharifi pers. comm. 2005). Roosts in crevices, small caves, mines, underground tunnels, wells, old monuments and buildings. Tolerates low relative humidity and light. Accumulates fat during the autumn and remains active throughout the year.

Distribution range extends from northern Africa through southwest Asia to Afghanistan, Pakistan and India. In southeast Asia, there are single old records from Thailand and Sumatra. Recorded from sea level in Egypt up to 1,200 m in Morocco.

No specific measures are known for this species, but presumably it occurs in some protected areas. A study on the impacts of pesticides is required, especially ways in which the impact might be minimised.