Ecology of the namtap Graphiurus ocularis (Rodentia:Gliridae) in the Cedarberg, South Africa

Abstract

A small population of namtaps, Graphiurus ocular is, (Rodentia: Gliridae) was studied by mark and recapture methods in the Cedarberg Wilderness Area, for four spring-summer seasons and two winter seasons. Mean population size per breeding season in the 7, 75 ha study site was seven adults. At least eight young are available each season for recruitment. As the adults live for four years or more, there are ample young available to replace adult losses. Namtaps eat mostly insects and other arthropods, but do take lizards and birds. They are sympatric with rock rats (Aethomys namaquensis) and elephant shrews (Elephantulus edwardii). Namtaps can climb vertical rock faces, while rock rats and elephant shrews move horizontally mainly at ground level. Namtaps may be trapped wherever suitable habitat is available and require no special protection by the authorities.