Is the an increase in small predator diversity

The main focus of Ingwe Leopard Research is obviously primarily based around the leopard. However other factors are also closely monitored. A key issue that is currently under debate here a Ingwe is the behaviour of the smaller predators in the study area. When I first started carrying out research in this area, about year ago now, it seemed as though few smaller predators were active in the area. Finding tracks of honey badger, civet or genet for example were infrequent occurrences and they were almost never photographed. However within the last couple of months this appears to be changing. Civet, mongoose and genet tracks are being seen almost everyday and camera traps images of these little creatures are also increasing in frequency (see image above of water mongoose and below image of an African Civet). A simple explanation to capturing more images of these creatures is simply the cameras are placed in different habitats. This is definitely the case for mammals such as the water mongoose, who prefer dense vegetation around water for example streams as they feed primarily on amphibians and molluscs which are more abundant in such areas, and hence will therefore be photographed only when cameras are placed for example in drainage lines close to running water. However civets for example are not bound by such tight habitat ties and images and these critters are increasing in all habitats as are their tracks. The reason to why we are suddenly recording more activity of small predators and any possible link with leopard activity is something I intend to investigate further and will keep you all updated. Thank you

Written by Emma Loader, Ingwe Researcher