This taxon has frequently been included in within Epomophorus gambianus, however, we follow Simmons (2005) and Monadjem et al. (2010) in recognizing E. crypturus as a distinct species.

Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, presumed large population, it occurs in a number of protected areas, has a tolerance of a degree of habitat modification, and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category.

This widespread southern African species is distributed from southern parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and southern Tanzania, to the eastern coastline of South Africa. It ranges from eastern Angola and northern Botswana to the southeastern African coastline. It has been recorded at elevations of up to 2,185 m asl, although it has mostly been collected between 500 and 1,500 m asl.

It is a quite common species, sometimes forming loose colonies of hundreds of bats.

This species is generally associated with dry savanna and riverine forest with fruit-bearing trees. Populations exhibit considerable movements in search of food, and may come into towns and feed on crops and fruit trees. Colonies often roost under the canopy of trees, in thick foliage.

There appear to be no major threats to this species as a whole. Some populations may be impacted by general persecution as crop pests.

It has been recorded from many protected areas. No direct conservation measures are needed for this widespread and adaptable species as a whole.