Reptiles and Amphibians in Mahimborondro

This expedition was one of the most intense I’ve ever had the privilege of participating in. I am used to working in the dry heat of the South African bushveld, or the scorching rocky hills of the Northern Cape and southern Namibia, so you can imagine the difference compared to working in a tropical rain forest such as we did. The conditions were tough; we were constantly in damp and humid environments with wet clothes, limited sun, and rain for much of the day and night.

However, the frogs were out in force and our timing with the rainy season was perfect for the Madagascan amphibians. We recorded just over 35 species of frogs across the two sites and were able to record additional life history information such as call data and records of eggs and breeding for many species. From the preliminary findings, it appears as though we have found several range extensions for amphibians! We also possibly recorded the first ever call for one of the Spinomantis species. We utilised ad hoc searches, both during the day and at night, and set up pit fall and funnel traps along a trap array. Night time searches were generally more productive and were usually focused along one of the many small streams snaking their way along the rainforest floor. The onset of rain every afternoon, and usually into the night, increased the activity of the frogs and males could be detected by their loud vocalisations.

Although amphibians were by far the most abundant herpetofauna (reptile and amphibian diversity), the reptiles were also present. We recorded nine species of chameleons between the two sites - from the largest chameleon in the world, Calumma parsoni (at around 60 cm) to one of the smallest (at around 5 cm in length), Brookesia theili. Snakes were scarce and we only managed to catch three species (seven individuals) and lost a further two in the thick foliage of the rainforest. We recorded a handful of lizards and geckos, including the charismatic and arboreal Leaf-tailed Geckos that are perfectly camouflaged in the branches and vines of the jungle understory.

The expedition ran smoothly, thanks to the great planning by the entire team and the guidance and vast experience and knowledge of Dr Lily Arison. The team was also great; having an upbeat and positive support system is vital for a successful and enjoyable expedition, especially in tough conditions such as those we faced! Being a group of enthusiastic biologists, each specialising in a certain field, meant we had a very holistic view of the rainforest; from the tiniest insects and orchids to small mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and the ever-charismatic birds. The island of Madagascar has some of the richest – and largely endemic - biodiversity in the world, which made this a fascinating and captivating trip.