Survey of Reptiles and Amphibians of Mount Kadam and Pian Upe

Kara-Tunga is excited to share a significant herpetological research initiative as part of our ongoing biodiversity study at Mount Kadam and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. We are privileged to host two esteemed researchers, Prof. Michael B. Harvey from Broward College in Florida, USA, and Dr. Waswa Sadic from Uganda, for a three-week stay.

Research Team

• Prof. Michael B. Harvey: A college professor, scientist, and professional herpetologist with extensive experience, including previous research in Kidepo, Uganda, in 2021. Prof. Harvey specializes in the study of reptile and amphibian communities.
• Dr. Sadic Waswa Babyesiza: A collaborating researcher from Uganda, joining Prof. Harvey in this vital study.

 

 

Study Objectives

The primary goals of this research are to:

1. Generate a comprehensive list of reptile and amphibian species occurring at the chosen research site.
2. Tabulate a variety of ecological data for selected species, including activity times, reproductive output, diet preferences, and behavior.
3. The study aims to contribute valuable scientific data that can inform conservation efforts and potentially lead to the development of specialized eco-tourism opportunities focused on herpetofauna.

Methodology

The research will focus on a mountain within the Kara-Tunga operational areas, known for its existing campsites and strong community ties. Prof. Harvey’s flexible approach will adapt to habitat and logistical considerations, incorporating various field techniques:

• Night Surveys: Researchers will conduct nocturnal surveys, walking trails with headlamps to locate active species or those sleeping on vegetation.
• Pitfall Trap Arrays: Y-shaped pitfall trap arrays will be installed to capture secretive species. These traps consist of wooden stakes with plastic sheeting leading to five-gallon buckets placed at the ends and in the middle of the ‘Y’.
• Behavioral Observation: For selected species, researchers will conduct focused observations using binoculars to determine ecological variables such as activity times, home range size, feeding behavior, and flight distances.

Specimen Collection and Deposition

Where necessary for definitive identification, voucher specimens may be collected. These specimens will be meticulously documented—photographed, weighed, humanely euthanized using approved methods. The collection prioritizes accessibility for study in perpetuity, with a preference for deposition in a scientific collection within Uganda, or an international museum if local facilities are not available.

Collaboration and Community Involvement

A key aspect of this research is the involvement of local students and scientists. This collaboration aims to build local capacity in statistical methods, survey techniques, and the conservation biology of reptiles and amphibians. Kara-Tunga is also assisting with the coordination of necessary permits from Ugandan wildlife authorities and providing guidance on regulatory requirements.

Expected Outcomes

The findings from this study are anticipated to be published in international scientific journals, significantly contributing to the understanding of Uganda’s biodiversity. Furthermore, the generated data will be a valuable resource for Kara-Tunga’s conservation initiatives, aiding in setting conservation priorities within the buffer zones and highlighting the rich reptilian and amphibian diversity of the Karamoja sub-region.

We look forward to sharing updates as this exciting research progresses.

For more information on our conservation efforts and other research projects, please visit: Biodiversity Research.

Preliminary findings

Read the preliminary findings of the study here.