WETLANDS AS RESERVOIRS OF SMALL-MAMMAL POPULATIONS IN THE NATAL DRAKENSBERG

Small-mammal populations were sampled in various habitats in the Kamberg Nature Reserve and adjacent farmland. Wetland areas supported a much greater density of small mammals than did other habitats, and represent areas of considerable conservation importance. Eight species were trapped, with Rhabdomys pumilio, Myosorex varius and Otomys irroratus being the most abundant species present. Small-mammal species diversity increased with increasing habitat heterogeneity and disturbance. Fire is an important tool in maximizing population density and diversity of the small-mammal community.