Occurs in primary and secondary forests, and is found mainly in swamp forest and streambeds with deep sandy soils where earthworms are abundant. Although present in secondary forests, the lack of den sites may restrict the species's distribution (Taylor and Dunham 2013). Behavioural observations and faecal analyses suggest that it is an earthworm specialist, but small vertebrates and insect larvae may also be taken if found while digging for worms. Fallen fruits are also consumed (Taylor and Dunham 2013).

The species is known only from north-eastern Liberia (Goldman and Taylor 1990) and western Côte d’Ivoire. Recent camera-trap evidence confirmed its presence in Sapo N. P., 80 km further south than previously recorded in Liberia (Vogt et al. 2012). The species was not detected during a broad reconnaissance and camera-trapping study conducted in the Putu Mountains, southeast Liberia, but local reports suggest that it was historically present and may persist at low density. It is likely to occur in suitable habitat in S. Guinea (Taylor and Dunham 2013).

They are known to be present in Taï and Sapo National Parks.