A joint team from the Field Museum, Roosevelt University, and Makerere University recently concluded an intensive mammal species inventory on the rugged slopes of Mount Morungole, Karamoja, from July 22nd to August 3rd, 2016. This expedition, documented under JCK 9900-10277, sheds new light on the diverse and often elusive mammal fauna inhabiting this remote and vital ecosystem.
Mount Morungole:
Mount Morungole, a jewel in Karamoja’s crown, has long been recognized for its unique biodiversity. However, detailed scientific surveys of its mammal populations have been limited. This recent research aimed to address this gap, providing crucial baseline data for future conservation efforts.
Shrews and Hyraxes:
The inventory revealed a fascinating array of small mammals. Shrews, belonging to the Soricidae family, were particularly abundant, with three species identified. Crocidura luna dominated the captures (34 individuals), alongside two individuals of an unidentified Crocidura species and a single Suncus megalura. The presence of these small insectivores underscores the ecological complexity of the mountain’s undergrowth.
The iconic rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) was also confirmed, with three individuals observed. These robust mammals, well-adapted to rocky terrains, play a significant role in shaping the local ecosystem.
A Glimpse of the Carnivore:
A single slender mongoose (Herpestes sanguineus) was captured, offering a glimpse into the predatory mammals inhabiting the area. This solitary carnivore’s presence indicates a healthy, albeit potentially fragile, food web.
Bats: Masters of the Night Sky:
The nocturnal world of Mount Morungole proved to be rich in bat diversity. Nine species were documented, showcasing the importance of the mountain’s caves and forests as vital habitats. Fruit bats, represented by Epomophorus labiatus and Rousettus aegyptiacus, were observed in significant numbers, highlighting their role in seed dispersal and pollination.
Microbats, the smaller insectivorous bats, were even more diverse. Myotis tricolor, Miniopterus sp. and Rhinolophus sp. were particularly abundant, with the latter showing a high diversity of physical characteristics (FA 51-54). Other species recorded included Rhinolophus hildebrandti, Hipposideros caffer, and an unidentified Vespertilionidae. The diversity of microbats suggests a rich insect population, crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
Rodents: The Unsung Heroes:
Rodents, often overlooked, emerged as the most diverse and abundant group. Sixteen species were identified, demonstrating their vital role in the ecosystem. Lophuromys aquilus and Praomys jacksoni were notably prevalent, indicating their adaptability to the mountain’s varied habitats.
Other rodent species documented included Aethomys hindei, Cricetomys sp., Cryptomys ochraceocinereus, Dendromus messorius, Dendromus spectabilis, Dendromus mystacalis, Grammomys sp., Graphiurus sp., Lemniscomys striatus, Mastomys natalensis, Mus sp., Myomyscus brockmani, Otomys tropicalis, and Thryonomys swinderianus. This diverse array of rodents underscores the complexity of the mountain’s food web and the importance of preserving their habitats.
Beyond Captures: Traces of Larger Mammals:
While the primary focus was on trapping and identifying smaller mammals, evidence of larger species was also documented. Spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) feces were found at two cave sites, indicating their use as dens or resting areas. A leopard (Panthera pardus) skin, brought to camp, sadly suggests the ongoing pressures these large predators face. A snared bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) carcass on the eastern slope further highlights the threats posed by illegal hunting. Finally, porcupine (Hystrix sp.) quills found at a cave complex suggest their presence in the rocky areas.
Conservation Implications:
This comprehensive inventory provides vital baseline data for understanding the mammal diversity of Mount Morungole. The findings highlight the importance of conserving this unique ecosystem, facing threats from habitat loss and poaching. Continued research and community engagement are crucial to ensure the long-term survival of these fascinating mammals.
Kara-Tunga Foundation – under the Karamoja Conservation Zones initiative – has trained farmers in Moroto and Nakapiripirit District in the basics of beekeeping. The training prepares farmers to manage beehives which will be placed in the Conservation Zones.
International bird observations platform eBird approved the Pian-Upe Eco Camp as bird watching hotspot. This is a great achievement of Kara-Tunga Foundation‘s – Karamoja Conservation Zones initiative who established the camp as research and monitoring centre.
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Mount Morungole Mammal Species Inventory
A joint team from the Field Museum, Roosevelt University, and Makerere University recently concluded an intensive mammal species inventory on the rugged slopes of Mount Morungole, Karamoja, from July 22nd to August 3rd, 2016. This expedition, documented under JCK 9900-10277, sheds new light on the diverse and often elusive mammal fauna inhabiting this remote and vital ecosystem.
Mount Morungole:
Mount Morungole, a jewel in Karamoja’s crown, has long been recognized for its unique biodiversity. However, detailed scientific surveys of its mammal populations have been limited. This recent research aimed to address this gap, providing crucial baseline data for future conservation efforts.
Shrews and Hyraxes:
The inventory revealed a fascinating array of small mammals. Shrews, belonging to the Soricidae family, were particularly abundant, with three species identified. Crocidura luna dominated the captures (34 individuals), alongside two individuals of an unidentified Crocidura species and a single Suncus megalura. The presence of these small insectivores underscores the ecological complexity of the mountain’s undergrowth.
The iconic rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) was also confirmed, with three individuals observed. These robust mammals, well-adapted to rocky terrains, play a significant role in shaping the local ecosystem.
A Glimpse of the Carnivore:
A single slender mongoose (Herpestes sanguineus) was captured, offering a glimpse into the predatory mammals inhabiting the area. This solitary carnivore’s presence indicates a healthy, albeit potentially fragile, food web.
Bats: Masters of the Night Sky:
The nocturnal world of Mount Morungole proved to be rich in bat diversity. Nine species were documented, showcasing the importance of the mountain’s caves and forests as vital habitats. Fruit bats, represented by Epomophorus labiatus and Rousettus aegyptiacus, were observed in significant numbers, highlighting their role in seed dispersal and pollination.
Microbats, the smaller insectivorous bats, were even more diverse. Myotis tricolor, Miniopterus sp. and Rhinolophus sp. were particularly abundant, with the latter showing a high diversity of physical characteristics (FA 51-54). Other species recorded included Rhinolophus hildebrandti, Hipposideros caffer, and an unidentified Vespertilionidae. The diversity of microbats suggests a rich insect population, crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
Rodents: The Unsung Heroes:
Rodents, often overlooked, emerged as the most diverse and abundant group. Sixteen species were identified, demonstrating their vital role in the ecosystem. Lophuromys aquilus and Praomys jacksoni were notably prevalent, indicating their adaptability to the mountain’s varied habitats.
Other rodent species documented included Aethomys hindei, Cricetomys sp., Cryptomys ochraceocinereus, Dendromus messorius, Dendromus spectabilis, Dendromus mystacalis, Grammomys sp., Graphiurus sp., Lemniscomys striatus, Mastomys natalensis, Mus sp., Myomyscus brockmani, Otomys tropicalis, and Thryonomys swinderianus. This diverse array of rodents underscores the complexity of the mountain’s food web and the importance of preserving their habitats.
Beyond Captures: Traces of Larger Mammals:
While the primary focus was on trapping and identifying smaller mammals, evidence of larger species was also documented. Spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) feces were found at two cave sites, indicating their use as dens or resting areas. A leopard (Panthera pardus) skin, brought to camp, sadly suggests the ongoing pressures these large predators face. A snared bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) carcass on the eastern slope further highlights the threats posed by illegal hunting. Finally, porcupine (Hystrix sp.) quills found at a cave complex suggest their presence in the rocky areas.
Conservation Implications:
This comprehensive inventory provides vital baseline data for understanding the mammal diversity of Mount Morungole. The findings highlight the importance of conserving this unique ecosystem, facing threats from habitat loss and poaching. Continued research and community engagement are crucial to ensure the long-term survival of these fascinating mammals.
Species sightings list
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