The Tickell’s Bat (Hesperoptenus tickelli), a rare species last recorded in Sri Lanka in 1963, has been rediscovered, according to Dr. Tharaka Kusuminda, a bat researcher at the Department of Zoology, University of Colombo.
Dr. Kusuminda revealed that this small-bodied bat, belonging to the Vespertilionidae family, had been classified as a “data deficient” species in the Red Data List due to the absence of sightings for nearly six decades.
Three individuals of this elusive species were recently discovered in separate locations: Eknaligoda in Kuruwita, Halloluwa in Kandy, and Hokandara in Colombo.
The rediscovery sheds light on the species’ potential survival in dry, wet, and intermediate ecological zones, although little is known about its behavior, habitat, or lifestyle. Dr. Kusuminda noted that Hesperoptenus tickelli appears to roost among tall, large-leaved plants, but further research is needed to understand its ecology.
The initial specimens collected in 1963 are housed at the National Museum in Colombo. This recent finding underscores the importance of continued conservation efforts and research to better understand and protect Sri Lanka’s biodiversity.
