 Both species of Voalavo occur in montane forest. V. gymnocaudus is restricted to the Northern Highlands, where it is found at 1,250 – 1,950 m (4,100 – 6,400 ft) altitude in Marojejy and Anjanaharibe-Sud. The known range of V. antsahabensis is restricted to the vicinity of Anjozorobe at 1,250 – 1,425 m (4,101 – 4,675 ft) altitude. Although most of the 450 km (280 mi) between the ranges of the two species consists of montane forest — suitable habitat for Voalavo — the area is bisected by the low-lying Mandritsara Window, which may serve as a barrier between the two species. Subfossil remains of Voalavo have been found in the former Mahajanga Province (northwestern Madagascar).
