Stanely Acham
From August 20 to 31,2017ateam, made of ERuDeF’s Amphibians coordinator, Grace Neba, alongside ornithologists (bird specialists) and chiropterologists (bat specialists) from the University of Maroua, Congo Basin Institute and Dja Reserve respectively, were engaged in identifying birds and bat species at this emblematic mountain. Two mist nets for birds were set up every morning. This according to Jean Michel Takuo from Congo
Basin Institute was because most birds are active early in the morning. For bats, mist nets were setup every evening. The birds were also identified via point count.
Some bird species captured during the survey, included but not limited to the Bannerman weaver (Ploceusbannermani) and Cameroon Blue-headed sunbird (Cyanomitraoritis).
The inventory also served as an opportunity for ERuDeF’s Amphibians Coordinator to gain new knowledge in bird and bat survey
“After this survey I now know how to set up mist net for birds, conduct point counts for birds and also how to collect and record data for birds and bats in the field. As a wildlife biologist in ERuDeF having broad knowledge on several wildlife species survey method is paramount. From now on if ERuDeF is planning any bird survey then I think I can successfully conduct the survey. Also I will be glad to teach my other colleague what I learnt in the field” She testified
Jointly organized by ERuDeF and CAMHERP-CBF, the expedition was conducted as part of activities for the Mt Manenguba project aimed at establishing a data base of all wildlife species within the proposed Mount Muanenguba Integral Ecological Reserve.
