Posted December 11, 2024 in Interns
New Species Recorded at UmPhafa!
In November 2024, we started a new activity for the intern programme of Pitfall Trapping.
Firstly, we needed the right location and not to far from the Intern House so it could be checked every morning and evening.
Secondly, we had to build the trap. This was done out of recycled materials, zinc metal sheeting, poles and a tub for the trap. Most importantly this trap is mobile, which means it’s quick and easy to remove and place in a new location, as well as easy to close up when not in use.
A pitfall trap is a passive catching method used for arthropods, reptiles, amphibians or any small mammals. The goal of the pitfall trap is to record species abundance as well as seasonal occurrence.
In just three weeks we have captured many species but most importantly, two new species we can now record for the Reserve. A new frog – Boettger’s dainty frog (Cacosternum boettgeri) and a common baboon spider (Genus Harpactira).
Following this success, we are very excited to set this trap up again in the New Year and hopefully identify more new species on UmPhafa.
