Trioceros feae and T. camerunensis have previously been considered to be subspecies of T. montium.

Trioceros montium has been listed as Near Threatened as it is experiencing localized loss of habitat, which in turn is fragmenting its distribution. The species has an estimated extent of occurrence close to 10,000 km², but its real range is suspected to be much smaller, with the species likely to occur in less than ten locations due to its specific elevation and habitat requirements. It faces additional pressure as individuals are collected for the international pet trade. Although it is still considered abundant in certain parts of its range, further population monitoring is required.

This species occurs in the highlands of Cameroon between 700 and 1,900 m above sea level (Hofer et al. 2003). The area in which this species is distributed is approximately 10,000 km². However, its occurrence within that range is likely to be much smaller.

This species is reported to have suffered from localized declines. Declines have been reported by collectors around Mt Cameroon (Gonwou 2002) possibly due to overcollecting for international pet trade. Elsewhere in the range, including Mt Nlonako, the species is reported to be abundant (Harbourt and Herrmann 2002).

This species has a very specific habitat (forests and farmbushes) and elevation requirement (700 to 1,900 m). Since the majority of the highlands of Cameroon is comprised of extensive areas of savanna and grassland, this species is restricted to limited suitable habitats within this area. This species is also found to occur within small mixed farms, roadside hedges and gardens (Gonwou 2002, M. LeBreton pers. comm.).

This species has a small range size and its very specific habitat and elevation requirements means it is vulnerable to habitat degradation, habitat change and climate change. Agricultural activities are expanding in the Cameroon highlands and may constitute a threat to this species. The species is also of value to the international pet trade (UNEP-WCMC 2010).

This species is collected for the international pet trade. 1,545 live individuals were reported to have been traded from Cameroon between 2005 and 2008 (UNEP-WCMC 2010).

This species is listed on CITES Appendix II. It does not occur in any protected areas and the identification and establishment of protected areas is required to prevent further habitat degradation and change. Further research is required to monitor population numbers, and it is important to identify if the observed localized declines are accelerating or occuring across the whole range. Despite its CITES listing, additional work is required to control harvest levels.