Population size in Namibia is much larger than seems probable for an apparently rare species at 108,100 birds. However, densities for this elusive Namib escarpment species can reach 15 birds per km2 near Sesfontein. It is found most commonly between 800 m and 1,400 m above sea level (77% of 131 sightings) and rarely above 1,800 m above sea level. They occur more commonly on south-facing slopes, where Commiphora and Acacia trees occur more densely. Area of occupancy in Namibia is 90,900 km2, with a northern extension into Angola's Iona National Park.