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Known from only the type locality, and not recorded for more than 50 years. The existing evidence is that it is a valid species, and occurs in an area of high threat owing to radical habitat transformation by alluvial diamond mining, so it is listed as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct) under criteria B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii), notwithstanding that its cryptic and trap-shy nature may obscure a more common and widespread occurrence.
Extremely rare; sympatric with E. granti and possibly underestimated due to external resemblance thereto. All of the golden moles in the Namaqualand coastal region are exceptionally difficult to catch, so this species could be more common or widespread than current records indicate.
Habitat alteration as a result of mining of coastal sands for alluvial diamonds in the Port Nolloth district may pose a threat to this species (Smithers 1986). The type locality is near Port Nolloth, an important regional harbour that is being expanded to establish more fish processing plants and abalone maricultures, so infrastructural developments with increased human densities can also be considered a possible threat.
Not recorded from any protected areas. Fieldwork to survey for populations and assess the extent of anthropogenic threats is urgently needed. Research to determine distribution limits and basic ecology is also a priority.