Rationale (Changed due to Same category and criteria)
The species is listed as Near Threatened as it is currently known from 12 localities, with an area of occupancy estimated at 2,500 km² (insufficient for a Vulnerable listing under Criterion B2), and based on multivariate morphometrics predictions it is probably more widespread than current records indicate (Bronner 2000). Observed habitat degradation associated with mining for shallow coal deposits to fuel numerous power stations that occur in the preferred high-altitude grassland habitats of this species is an inferred major threat. Rehabilitation attempts at these sites have proved largely ineffective. These power stations form the backbone of South Africa's electricity network, and disturbance is likely to increase as human populations grow and the demand for power increases. Farming and agro-forestry (exotic pine and eucalyptus plantations) have also transformed habitat, but less dramatically; this does not appear to pose a major threat. Research is currently underway to acquire data on distribution limits. Data is required to shed light on ecology, behaviour densities and reproduction. It almost qualifies as threatened under criterion B2ab(ii,iii).