It is endemic to Mexico and only known from the south and southeast flanks of Pico de Orizaba in central Veracruz, at elevations of 2,500–2,725 m (8,202–8,940 ft) asl.

[1][2] Its natural habitat is pine-oak forest where it is living under the bark of stumps or fallen logs, or, in a partially cut forest, within piles of wood chips and shavings.

This species was previously abundant, but has undergone massive declines, with only single specimen recorded over a 15-year period.

It is threatened by habitat loss caused by logging, expanding agriculture, and increasing tourist development.

This lungless salamander article is a stub.