Formerly classified in the genus Peliperdix, a 2020 study found it, the white-throated francolin (C. albogularis), and Schlegel's francolin (C. schlegelii) together comprise a new genus Campocolinus.

[3] The International Ornithological Congress has accepted these findings.

[4] It is mainly found in Africa's southern half but is also sparsely present in the western Sahel and Ethiopia.

It is believed to be the most widespread francolin in Africa.

It mainly inhabits grasslands, steppes, savannas and dry scrubland, but also bright forest and grain fields.