Tickell’s bat, <i>Hesperoptenus tickelli</i> (Blyth, 1851), in Sri Lanka with new records after 58 years and roosting ecology notes

Abstract Tickell’s bat ( Hesperoptenus tickelli ) is a medium-sized bat belonging to the family Vespertilionidae. This species was rarely recorded in recent surveys in its range. Similarly, this species has not been recorded in Sri Lanka since 1963. Further, it is assumed to roost in dense foliage of tall trees. We report three opportunistic records of this species from Sri Lanka after 58 years, along with notes on its roosting ecology. We highlight the importance of comprehensive studies on the life history of this species for better conservation and management.