It is endemic to the West Usambara Mountains in northeastern Tanzania; previous records from elsewhere refer to other species.

[5] The natural habitats of Arthroleptis tanneri are montane forests at elevations of 1,400–2,000 m (4,600–6,600 ft) above sea level.

[1][5] Population trends of this species are unknown but it is believed to be in decline because of habitat loss and deterioration, which are caused by expanding agriculture, wood extraction, and human settlements.

In 2015 the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) assessed it as "Endangered" because of its small distribution area and the ongoing habitat loss and deterioration.

[1] Screeching Frogs all share a similar behavior that "scream" to startle predators off that can last up to 5 seconds and sounds often like a crying baby.