It was recorded at the type-locality in north Ecuador between 2,100 and 2,300 m in a (presumably) arid ravine within a valley. It has been speculated that the "Bogotá" trade-skins may have inhabited temperate zones. Basic biology is however unknown (Heynen et al. 2015).

Eriocnemis godini is known from only six specimens collected in the 19^th century, and may be extinct. Only the type-specimen has any locality information, having been taken at Guaillabamba, in ravines of the río Guaillabamba south of Perucho, Pichincha, in north Ecuador. Two "Bogotá" trade-skins are the only evidence of its occurrence in Colombia, but it has been suggested that these originated from Pasto in south Nariño. The only subsequent record is an unconfirmed sighting near Quito, in the Chillo valley, in 1976. Targeted searches at several sites in 1980 and 2004-2005 have failed to relocate the bird (Heynen et al. 2015).

Conservation Actions Underway
CITES Appendix II. Searches specifically for this species at a large number of potential sites in the vicinity of the type-locality have been unsuccessful. Further searches were planned for 2010 (BirdLife International unpublished data).

Conservation Actions Proposed
Survey any remnant patches of habitat near the type-locality. Protect any remaining habitat (Heynen et al. 2015). Clarify its taxonomic status.