[2] It was formerly confused with Gould's long-eared bat (N. gouldi), but a 2021 study described it as a distinct species.

It closely resembles N. gouldi, but differs genetically, and the anterior of its braincase is more laterally inflated, along with a shorter overall skull.

It is primarily found in taller marri (Corymbia calophylla) and jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) forests with a dense shrubby understory.

One specimen was collected in the Australian Wheatbelt, an area that has since been cleared of almost all native vegetation, indicating that the species has likely already faced a heavy range contraction due to habitat conversion.

It has been proposed that the species at minimum qualifies for Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List requirements.