This species is listed as Endangered because its extent of occurrence is approximately 629 km², it is found in only three locations, and there is a continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat. Population monitoring is needed.

This species is endemic to the central highlands (Gammaduwa, Riverstern-Knuckles, Nuwaraeliya, Hakgala SNR, NanuOya) of Sri Lanka (Bambaradeniya and Ranawana 1998, Phillips 1935, Phillips 1980, W.L.D.P.T.S Goonatilake pers. comm. 2018, Yathramullage et al. 2014, Crusz and Sanmugasunderam 1971) at an altitudinal range of 1,000 to 2,310 m asl (Molur et al. 2005, W.L.D.P.T.S Goonatilake pers. comm. 2016).

There is nothing known about the population size and trends for this species.

This species has been reported from primary tropical montane evergreen forests where it inhabits wet patana grasslands. Four individuals have been trapped in long grass. This species may be semi-fossorial (Molur et al. 2005).

This species is restricted to a small areas of declining habitat. Fires, cardamom plantations, pesticides and other more general forms of habitat loss and degradation are threatening these areas. In Nowaraeliya, there has been conversion of forest for vegetable cultivations where pesticides are used; at Riversturn (Knuckles), the area is protected however there are Cardamom plantations; at Gammaduwa, there is habitat loss due to village expansions, tea plantations, and use of pesticides; other sites are protected, but they are surrounded by tea and vegetable plantations with continuous used of pesticides (W.L.D.P.T.S. Goonatilake pers. comm. 2018).

The species is protected by Fauna and Flora Protection (Amendment) 45 Act, No.22 of 2009. Knuckles Forest Reserve and Hakgala Reserve are the two protected areas it has been recorded from (W.L.D.P.T.S. de A. Goonatilake pers. comm. 2005, Molur et al. 2005). General field surveys, research into the natural history and monitoring of populations are recommended for this species (Molur et al. 2005).