Range Extension and Behavioural Observations of the Flat-Headed Cusimanse (Crossarchus platycephalus) in Gabon

Abstract

The present work reports on new records of the flat-headed or Cameroon cusimanse (Crossarchus platycephalus) obtained from camera trap surveys carried out between 2021 and 2023 in central and northwestern Gabon. These records—in the form of high-definition videos—extend the southern limit of the species' known range by 172 km, as well as provide additional evidence of group living and co-occurrence with the blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) and moustached guenon (Cercopithecus cephus). These findings suggest that C. platycephalus may be more widespread than previously thought in Gabon, and that a review of existing camera trap datasets could help determine its precise distribution and habitat requirements.