This species inhabits the humid montane forests of eastern Madagascar in areas ranging from lowland to high-altitude rainforests, predominantly favouring undisturbed dark forests, particularly mossy montane forests (Langrand and Kirwan 2020, Mittermeier et al. 2021). Its favoured areas are characterised by large trees, dense understorey vegetation, thickets, fallen logs, damp soil and deep leaf litter. The species is typically found at elevations ranging from 750 m to 2000 m, with its highest abundance observed between 1250 m and 1750 m (del Hoyo et al. 2014, Langrand and Kirwan 2020). It is notably absent from rain-shadow slopes due to the dry conditions. They are ground-foragers, feeding on small invertebrates such as moths, beetle larvae, and even a 6 cm millipede (Evans et al. 1992). Breeding may take place in December-January. The nest burrow is 0.3-0.5 m long and is excavated in a sloping earth bank. Its clutch-size has been recorded as two (del Hoyo et al. 2001).

This species is endemic to Madagascar, where it occurs across the east spanning from the Tsaratanana and Manongarivo massifs in the north to Marojejy National Park in the northeast, and extending southward to Andohahela National Park. It has also been recorded in the Masoala Peninsula, Anjozorobe, and Kalambatritra Special Reserve (Langrand and Kirwan 2020). However, this species has not been observed at Bemanevika, likely due to the drier forests surrounding the area, which may not provide suitable habitat. Multiple sightings of A. crossleyi have been reported around Bekavahy in Mahimborondro. Due to these observations and the fact there is extensive areas of suitable habitat, it was suggested that this area likely harbours a significant population of the species (Mittermeier et al. 2021). A. crossleyi has also been documented in the Makira Forest (Holmes 2011). Although it is rare in degraded areas or drier fringes, it is absent from Amber Mountain and central plateau forest fragments (Safford et al. 2015). It has a larger population and wider distribution than was once thought (F. Hawkins in litt. 1995, Morris and Hawkins 1998).

Conservation Actions Underway
It occurs in at least 12 protected areas (del Hoyo et al. 2001).

Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct surveys to obtain data on density and thus a total population estimate. Monitor rates of habitat clearance and degradation across its range. Increase the area of suitable habitat that is protected. Increase the conditions of the protected areas by reducing illegal logging and other threats that are encroaching into them.