JOHANNESBURG – My research for my MA is focused on assessing the co-existence of the yellow mongoose (Cynictis penicillata) and slender mongoose (Herpestes sanguineus) in urban environments. This research aims to break new ground in the field of urban ecology and gives me the opportunity to turn this research into original work for my PhD.
A major part of my research is to assess the occurrence and distribution of the yellow and slender mongooses in the greater Johannesburg area, this includes both the East and West Rand.
The completion of this study relies largely on public participation, and I am sharing my project with as many people as possible and asking them to do the same. It is of great importance for us to study the animals we find in our urban environments because this research assists in their conservation and can also assist in controlling populations should they cause any problems.
I have created a Facebook page through which the public can report mongoose sightings, post questions or comment on the local mongoose population. I have a poster available which can be distributed to local schools, libraries or organisations which contains more information about the project and mongoose species.
Nadine Cronk on 079 739 0240.
