The species inhabits humid montane forest, primarily on low outlying ridges in the interior of forests at 750-1,500 m (Schulenberg et al. 2007, Schuchmann and Kirwan 2020). A recent study in the Many National Park, Department of Cuzco found the species occurring at an optimal elevation of 867-1,545 m. This suggests that the species may occupy a narrower distribution that previously considered (David et al. 2018). In the same study area, a population density of 57.9 individuals/km² was discovered, whilst large patches of Guadua spp. of bamboo, surrounded by undisturbed, humid low montane forests were considered to be important for breeding seasons (David et al. 2018). However, the species does readily occur in modified habitats, provided that patches of forest and secondary growth remain (Schuchmann and Kirwan 2020). The species feeds on the nectar of flowering epiphytes, shrubs, and smaller trees such as Rubiaceae, Ericaceae, or Gesneriaceae (Schuchmann and Kirwan 2020). 

Phlogophilus harterti is restricted to the Andean foothills of central and south-east Peru (south Huánuco, Pasco, Cuzco and Puno) (Sibley and Monroe 1990, Parker et al. 1996, Clements and Shany 2001), at 750-1,500 m where it is locally fairly common (Schulenberg et al. 2007).

Conservation Actions Underway
CITES Appendix II.

Conservation Actions Proposed
Attempt to obtain an accurate estimate of its population size and trends. Study its ecology and its ability to persist in degraded and fragmented habitats. Research the scale of trapping and trade. Quantify extent of habitat losses. Effectively protect significant areas of suitable habitat at key sites, in both strictly protected areas and community led multiple use areas.