This species is listed as Least Concern because although this species occurs at relatively low densities across its wide distribution range, it has been found to have a wide habitat tolerance, to face no known major threats, and to be present in several protected areas.

This species ranges from southwestern Uganda and Kenya to the Western Cape in South Africa (Stuart and Stuart 1998, 2013). Because of its secretive nature it has probably been overlooked in many areas, especially in light of records from sites that were previously considered unsuitable (Stuart and Stuart 2013). It has been recorded from nearly sea level to 2,300 m asl in Malawi (Medland and Dudley 1995).

It is rare to uncommon, with highest densities reached in moist higher rainfall grasslands (Stuart and Stuart 2013).

It is mainly found in savanna associations, although this species probably has a wide habitat tolerance and has been recorded from lowland rainforest, semi-desert grassland, fynbos and pine plantations (Larivière and Jennings 2009, Stuart and Stuart 2013). Road kills have been collected from areas of pastures and cultivated fields.

There are no major threats to the species but it is hunted for use in traditional medicines.

Cunningham and Zondi (1991) regarded this species as one of the most-used animals in traditional medicine, and in parts of its range the skins are commonly used by traditional healers and sangomas as a good luck charm.

This species is present in several protected areas across its range, including Masai Mara N. R., Serengeti N. P., North Luangwa N. P., Hwange N. P., Kruger N. P. and the southwestern part of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Stuart and Stuart 1990).