[5] The species is rare, but has a wide distribution with at least 25 populations, and is listed as near-threatened due to habitat loss causing the removal of their primary food source.

On the western slopes of the Andes, this species ranges from Piura in the North to Tacna in the south.

Elevations range from sea level to 2500 m although no individual has been collected below 2200 m. Populations are strongly associated with desert habitats dominated by columnar cactus.

[4] This species of cactus produces fruit year around, even after 17 months without rain which allows minimal bat populations to persist.

[4] During and following drought, two species of hummingbird (Patagona gigas and Rhodopis vesper) also play a role in pollination.

Other species which may play a role in their diet to an unknown degree include Browningia candelaris, Neoraimondia arequipensis, Coryocactus brevistylus, Echinopsis chiloensis, Armatocereus procerus, and Weberbauerocereus rauhii.

[7] The main conservation threats include habitat loss and collection for medicinal sale.

[1][5][4] Their low population densities and dependence in columnar cactus make them vulnerable to habitat loss.

[4] Additional threats include more frequent el Nino induced droughts with climate change.

[1] It is one of two species of bats currently listed as critically endangered by Peruvian legislation (Supreme Decree 034-2004-AG).