Researchers from Thailand's Royal Forest Department have recorded the Laotian leaf-nosed bat (Hipposideros rotalis) in Thailand for the first time, marking a new addition to the country's known mammal species. The discovery was made during wildlife surveys earlier this year at Hin Sam Wan (Three Whale Rock) Recreational Forest in Bueng Kan province, a protected forest area in northeastern Thailand known for its rich biodiversity. After examining the bat's physical characteristics and consulting specialists, researchers confirmed it as Hipposideros rotalis, a species previously known only from neighbouring Laos. The finding expands the known range of the species and highlights the ecological connectivity of forests across the Thai-Lao border. The insect-eating bat is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although relatively little is known about its biology. Researchers said the discovery underscores the importance of continued biodiversity surveys, noting that Thailand's forests may still hold previously unrecorded species and valuable scientific information for conservation efforts. #ThailandNews – at Pathum Wan, Thailand