Mammalogy

+27 51 447 9609

direk@nasmus.co.za

36 Aliwal Street

Bloemfontein, South Africa

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Mammalogy

Study of Mammals

The aims of this Department are:

To collect, study, monitor and preserve the mammals of the central interior of South Africa and Lesotho
To make collection material available for further research
To educate and to promote an awareness of our field of study and conservation in the general public

Small mammals

Few people know that approximately two thirds of all mammals (i.e. 66% – not the number of individuals, but the number of species!) are of the other kind. The kind that we often overlook when travelling, sight-seeing, hunting, taking wildlife photographs…the kind that we disregard when planning game reserves/ranches, or calculating stocking rates… small mammals!

Small mammals have been identified as valuable indicators of the health of grasslands. They react rapidly to habitat change, have small home ranges, are reasonably easy to catch, handle and study, and we already have a fair understanding of their general biology. Good quality habitat contains a high diversity of small mammals, while in disturbed or damaged habitat certain species dominate.

Visitors to our Departmental mammal reference collection are amazed to see how many different kinds of mice there are … even more so when told of the densities of these creatures in their habitats. The four-striped mouse, for example, may occur at densities of > 200/ha (compared to 1 Large Stock Unit/8 ha), whilst sharing their environment with more than five other mouse species!

So why don’t we see them?

Indigenous species are independent of man and, unlike the exotic and commensal house mouse and house rat, very few of them are found close to human dwellings; a fair percentage of these species are solitary. Most of the mice and shrews spend almost 100% of their time in dense vegetation and are regarded as secretive. Furthermore, three species spend 99.9% of their lives underground, while two species spend most of their time in disused termitaria. Approximately 49 mammal species (60% of small mammals) are nocturnal or predominantly nocturnal. Taking all these factors into account, it is therefore not surprising that our indigenous mammal fauna appears more than 50% “poorer” to the average citizen.

Today we know that these small mammals are excellent indicators of ecosystem integrity (the health of the ecosystem). The following factors can give an indication of ecosystem integrity:

The presence or absence of specific indicators such as ecosystem engineers (i.e. animals that prepare the environment for other organisms to live in), or the predominance of certain species (e.g. the predominance of the multi-mammate mouse is an indication that some form of disturbance has taken place).
Healthy and diverse carnivore populations (this also includes smaller predators such as shrews) usually indicate that the diversity of prey species is intact.
Healthy specialist or top-predator populations indicate that links lower down in their food chain are intact.
A large variety of rodent species and a high specialist: generalist ratio indicate that the predator guild is complete.

It is, however, the combination of the above that sketches the full picture of the integrity of the ecosystem. The better the integrity, the more resilient and resistant (stable) the ecosystem – which, in itself, may ensure higher, sustainable primary productivity and thereby directly influence the stocking rates of farms, game farms and nature reserves.

Small mammals have diverse morphological adaptations to their environments. The relatively flat head of some dormouse species enables it to enter even the narrowest of cracks, whilst the long, prehensile tail of the climbing mouse allows it to sit high on a grass stalk, freeing its “hands” to obtain seeds. Other small mammals use their long tails for balance when moving through treetops. The bipedal gerbil and the springhare of open areas rely on their relatively long legs to carry out fast hopping movements when escaping from predators. The long snout of the elephant shrew and the large ears of the bat-eared fox help them to locate prey, whilst the large ears of the large-eared mouse help it to evade predators. The long vibrissae and bristle-like hairs on the fore and hind feet of the common molerat may serve as feelers in their dark burrows. Does the African weasel use its striped pattern to “mimic” the appearance of the smelly polecat, or is it simply an effective camouflage similar to that used by the diurnal striped mouse, some skinks and grass snakes? What about its short legs? Do they allow this predator to effectively follow rats and mice into their burrows?

Did you know that one adult multi-mammate mouse (and her daughters) may potentially produce > 1 000 offspring in a 9-month breeding season, compared to the less than 200 offspring of most other species? This mouse has 12 pairs of mammae and can raise 24 young at a time, compared to an average of six young in the similar-sized four-striped grass mouse. It also has a shorter gestation period and has its first litter at a younger age; as a result, this species is able to quickly recolonise an area after natural or anthropogenic disturbances, temporarily dominating the small mammal fauna.

Furthermore, did you know that the total weight of mice in a 1 ha area of grassland may amount to more than 5 kg (compared to the approximately 25 kg/ha of large stock); taking into account their relatively high metabolism, mice may be responsible for > 15% of the vegetation consumed by all mammals. Luckily (for us) mouse numbers in central South Africa drop dramatically (probably up to 60%) between the end of autumn and the end of winter. This drop is mainly caused by a shortage of food and social stress. Population numbers start to increase again with the appearance of new shoots after winter and reach peak densities at the end of autumn.

Otomys sloggetti, the “ice rat”, is endemic to the high Maluti and Drakensberg mountains and is well adapted to the very cold conditions experienced in those open environments. Physically its relatively round body shape, short limbs and tail maximize the retention of heat. Like the other Otomys rats the body is covered in a thick blanket of hair and behaviourally it is strictly diurnal – its sun basking behaviour has led to its Sesotho name “Tadi ya maqwa” (≈ “the little old man of the snow”).

The Greater canerat, Thryonomys swinderianus, is bred and sold as a valuable protein source over its entire distribution area in Africa. It is also known as an agricultural pest in the sugar cane plantations of KwaZulu-Natal. Since the mid-1980s this mammal has infiltrated the Free State Province from the east (first Museum record – 1985, Reitz district), and was recently found on a farm c. 20 km west of Bultfontein; a westward increase in distribution range of 300 km in less than 18 years! Of great concern is that we do not know anything about the density, reproduction, social behaviour, etc. of this exotic mammal in our Free State ecosystems.

News

Exhibitions

In line with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which is annually observed on 3 December, the National Museum prepared a temporary display of artefacts for an educational experience to all. Researchers from 11 different Departments contributed, with as result a fairly large variety of items, on display.

This display, termed Equal Access, attempted to promote the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities and other people alike in an enjoyable, learning encounter at the National Museum. Since 2008 the National Museum has been on a path of developing more displays for all people to enjoy. This led to a steady development of making displays more accessible to everybody.

Dewalt and Esme Hattingh (both blind) are some of our visitors that thoroughly enjoyed the touch experience during the exhibition Equal Access.

Popular talks

Members of the Aganang Support Group of the Free State Society for the Blind recently visited the National Museum for a memorable experience in our exhibition halls. Guides from the Museum’s Mammalogy and Education Departments treated guests to a touch, sound and truly educational experience. Our visitors were divided into smaller groups, allowing each person to “see” a number of animals and objects from up close, while the guides shared interesting information and answered questions. Hands were sanitized before and after touching objects.

Following feedback from the Society for the Blind, a visit to the National Museum is always one of thé highlights on their support group’s annual calenders. For the Museum, on the other hand, such visits encourage the continuous upgrade of our exhibitions to give a unique experience to persons with a variety of disabilities. Upgrades typically include the development of exciting new objects in our exhibitions (such as the enlarged and skillfully painted 3D prints of minute organisms), making use of easier readable fonts in accompanying texts, and improving lighting to enhance the experience of partially sighted persons. Detailed feedback from visitors are therefore, always, highly valued.

Ongoing field work in long-term research projects

(Photo: Marcus Westberg)

May 2021
In the quest to better understand and interpret observed changes in the Kalahari ecosystem, drs Nico Avenant (National Museum Mammalogy Department) and Duncan MacFadyen (Head Research and Conservation, Oppenheimer Generations) have recently started the project Small mammals as an indicator of habitat change in the Kalahari.

This work, done in the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, will form part of the extensive and long term Kalahari Endangered Ecosystems Project (KEEP) that aims to address the impact of climate change on the Kalahari ecosystem. As such the small mammal component will be integrated with the work of a large number of other specialists / senior researchers in other fields, from at least six other South African universities, and results correlated to various abiotic, soil, vegetation and insect variables.

Information from the KEEP project, and therefore also our specific part on the small mammal species and communities, should potentially make a significant contribution to species and nature/ecosystem conservation at Tswalu and in the larger Kalahari. Improved understanding of the processes of change, coupled to environmental and habitat change, and the intricate web of Kalahari organisms, will also help scientists to better predict future scenarios. All of this information are bound to be included in the biodiversity monitoring protocols and management plans of the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, and have the potential for wider application as well.

(Photo: Nico Avenant)

November 2021
Dr Nico Avenant is one of more than 60 scientists from eight French and 10 South African research institutions currently collaborating in the long-term project Biodiversity and global change in Southern Africa. This project has been running since 2005. Pictured here are Dr Guila Ganem from the University of Montpellier (France) and PhD student Hamilcar Keilani doing fieldwork in the southern Free State.

New Collaborations

Photo: PhD student Mnqobi Mamba (University of Eswatini) and Prof. Guila Ganem (University of Montpellier) with Dr. Avenant in the Malalotja Nature Reserve, Eswatini (after receiving the results from their Covid-19 tests).

June 2021
In one of our collaborative research projects, Biodiversity and global change in southern Africa: Rhabdomys contact zones - windows on adaptability and climate change, new collaborators Professors Ara Monadjem and Themb'a Mahlaba, from the University of Eswatini, have recently being added. The wider team now consists of a number of research specialists in different supporting fields, from four French and German research centres, the universities of WITS, Namibia and Eswatini, and the National Museum. Fieldwork has already being conducted in five South African provinces, in Namibia, Lesotho, and now also in Eswatini.
Dr. Nico Avenant has recently also been invited to be part of another international collaborative research project, Quantifying Africa’s Biodiversity Intactness Index (BII). The project is led by Dr. Haley Clements from the Stellenbosch University. N. Avenant are part of the four chapters, on Bats, Rodents, Insectivores and Small Carnivores.

Fieldschool

October 2021

Florisbad Quarternary Research Centre has recently been the home of another successful fieldschool. A group of 16 students from the University of Pretoria’s Geography and Environmental Sciences Honours class travelled 500km with two lecturers to put their long weekend to good use at this exclusive heritage and active research site, 40km north of Bloemfontein.

Two of the National Museum’s departments, Florisbad Quarternary Research (represented by Drs Lloyd Rossouw and Brigette Cohen) and Mammalogy (represented by Dr Nico Avenant), collaborated to host a fieldschool that included fieldwork in the quiet Soutpan environment, interesting lectures, stimulating discussions around the excavation areas, a visit to the unique research collection, as well as plenty of healthy student fun.

Conferences

November 2021
Dr. Nico Avenant of our Mammalogy Department served on the Organizing Committee that recently hosted the oldest zoological congress in the world – and bringing it for the first time to African shores! The International Congress of Zoology (ICZ) already had its first meeting in 1889 (in Paris, France); and 132 years later experienced its first virtual meeting, from South Africa. According to Dr. Avenant the ICZ2021, with the theme Zoology in the Anthropocene - a holistic integrated approach to conservation, was a great success. Delegates representing more than 50 countries made more than 400 pre-recorded oral and poster contributions; these included 10 high profile plenary speakers.

Dr. Jane Goodall, the world renowned expert on chimpanzees, and best known for her 60-year study on the social and family interactions of wild chimpanzees (she first went to Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania in 1960), delivered the Keynote address live from her home in England. The user friendly digital portal and the competent conference company, enabled the efficient running of six parallel sessions over the three days from 22 to 24 November 2021. As a welcome extra, Bloemfontein also shone brightly through two contributions by one of our better known ‘export products’ - the multi-cultural Bloemfontein Children’s Choir generously made two recordings of their songs available to the conference.

With the assistance of a Bloemfontein-based production company, and beautiful pictures and videos from a well-known wildlife photographer, videos were prepared for the Opening and Closing ceremonies: the Opening video, with the sound track "Sounds of Africa” (by Prof Mzilikazi Khumalo), proudly displayed the rich wildlife and cultural diversity of South Africa; for the Closing ceremony "Sisi ni Moya" (“We are one” - by Jacob Narverud) beautifully brought the topics of the three days together, fostering the idea that we conserve the earth for our children and their children. Two members from the Mammalogy Department, Drs. Nico Avenant and Aluwani Nengovhela, delivered oral presentations on their research (“Southern Africa's Grassland Biome: rodent community composition as an indication of post-fire succession”, and “Highland versus lowland rodents - who are the smartest”, respectively).

Staff

Specialist Museum Scientist and Head of Department

Nico L. Avenant PhD navenant@nasmus.co.za

Nico Avenant is a small mammal ecologist with extensive field experience, working on a wide variety of rodents and their predators. He has joined the National Museum in 1995. Observations made during his early collection trips, together with his introduction to environmental impact assessments (EIAs), led to Nico’s current research field, i.e. small mammal community characteristics as indicators of habitat integrity. His PhD study (on the ecology of the exotic Marion Island house mouse) added value to his studies on small mammal ecology. Nico slowly started to merge the fields of “small mammals as indicators” and “predator-prey relations”. To date Nico has contributed towards >75 peer-reviewed publications, >65 research based reports, >130 national and international conference and workshop contributions, and five chapters in books. Current RG Score = 26.90; h-index 21; research interest 1231.8; work cited in 1361 publications.

Nico is a National Research Foundation (NRF) rated scientist and a Research Associate of the Centre for Environmental Management (CEM), University of the Free State (UFS). He collaborates on national and international research projects, and lectures to and supervises both undergraduate and post-graduate students. He has conducted research over a wide area in Southern Africa, at the Prince Edward Islands, and in Cambodia.

Since January 2000 Nico has acted as reviewer for manuscripts in 20 different accredited journals, for conference abstracts, for three books, and for five species profiles for the Mammals of Africa (Kingdon et al. 2013); as scientific advisor for the Mammals of the Southern African Subregion (Skinner & Chimimba 2005); as contributor and compiler for the SA Red Data Books for Mammals (Friedmann & Daly 2004; Child et al. 2016); as Guest Editor for the journals Integrative Zoology and Navorsinge van die Nasionale Museum, Bloemfontein. He is currently a Section Editor for African Zoology. More recently Nico has assessed applications for NRF evaluations and ratings, for NRF funding, and project proposals for a number of national and international Grant entities and tertiary institutions. He has also acted as an external examiner for 25 post-graduate studies (from 11 different universities), and as advisor for Recognition of Prior Learning applications.

Nico’s other responsibilities at the National Museum include involvement in certain educational activities, and overseeing the collections and administration of the Mammalogy Department. The Department’s research collection and database comprise c. 13 000 mammal specimens and records. As Curator of the collection he is primarily responsible for the systematic growth thereof, and for ensuring that it remains relevant and accessible for researchers internationally. His involvement in EIAs and participation in conservation initiatives represent contributions towards the conservation of species, biodiversity and ecosystems. Regarding involvement in education, Nico contributes actively to permanent and temporary Museum exhibitions, he presents both popular and academic lectures, provides information on mammals and ecosystems to individuals and groups, and supervises post-graduate students (14 MSc and PhD degrees awarded). The 29 popular publications, 23 newspaper articles, 74 popular talks and involvement with the “Big 5” computer game are further testimony to his commitment to research-based education at all levels.

Nico currently serves or has served on the following committees or forums: International Conference for Rodent Biology and Management; International Association for Impact Assessment, Free State Branch; Free State Conservation Forum; Free State Biodiversity Planning Steering Committee; Eskom's Multi-disciplinary Committee; the South African National Defence Force Regional Environmental Advisory Forum; various National Museum committees, e.g. Science Forum Committee (ex-chair), HOD Works Committee (ex-chair), Collections Audit Committee, Exhibitions Committee. He currently also serves on the Editorial Advisory Boards of Integrative Zoology and is a Section Editor for African Zoology. He is a member of the Zoological Society of Southern Africa, as well as the South African Institute of Ecologists and Environmental Scientists.

Museum Scientist and Collections Manager - Mammalogy

Aluwani Nengovhela PhD anengovhela@nasmus.co.za

Aluwani Nengovhela obtained her professional degree BSc (Environmental Management) and MSc (Environmental Sciences) at the University of Venda.

In 2019, she obtained her joint PhD degree in Zoology from the University of Venda and the University of Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, France. Her thesis title was: 3D Cranial Morphometry, Sensory Ecology and Climate Change in African Rodents.

Aluwani joined the National Museum on 1 September 2021 as a Museum Scientist and Collections Manager in the Department of Mammalogy.

Her research interest focuses on better understanding rodent brain and inner ear morphology, using state of the art 3D geometric morphometric approaches. She is also interested in rodent ecology, particularly on the effect that global climate change may have.

General Assistant / Preparator

Tshediso Putsane

Tshediso Putsane started his career at the National Museum in March 2013, as a General Assistant / Preparator at the Department of Mammalogy. Tshediso’s main tasks include: assistance during fieldwork, preparation of study material for inclusion in the Mammalogy Department’s Research Collection, assistance with the curation of this collection and the day-to-day running of the department. Tshediso is also involved with some educational activities for visitors to the Mammalogy Department and for students at the University of the Free State. His fieldwork experience includes extensive sampling in Free State provincial nature reserves, on iron ore mine properties, and in Lesotho.

General Assistant / Preparator

Ronny Nokha

Ronny Ronny Nokha started his career at the National Museum in April 2015, as Preparator at the Department of Mammalogy. Ronny’s main tasks include: assistance during fieldwork, preparation of study material for inclusion in the Mammalogy Department’s Research Collection, assistance with the curation of this collection and the day-to-day running of the department. He is also involved with educational activities for visitors to the Mammalogy Department and for students at the University of the Free State.

Publications - Scientific Articles

N.L. Avenant & D.L. Bergman. 2021. Introduction. In: Mesocarnivore predation in South Africa – meeting the challenges to food security and biodiversity, Part 1. Indago 37: i-ii. ISSN 0067-9208.

Quinette Kruger, Nico L. Avenant and HO de Waal. 2021. The contribution of historical hunt club records to inform the management of damage-causing animals in South Africa. Indago 37: 17-30. ISSN 0067-9208.

Andries J. Strauss, Nico L. Avenant & H.O. de Waal. The impact of predation on Merino and Dorper sheep flocks in the central Free State Province, South Africa. Indago 37: 43–53. ISSN 0067-9208.

Nico L. Avenant & Jenny B. Morwe. 2021. Black-backed jackal diet in the Maria Moroka Nature Reserve, Free State Province: Implications for managing depredation on small stock farms. Indago 37: 55–66. ISSN 0067-9208.

Alistair Green, Nico L. Avenant & Haemish I.A.S. Melville. 2021. Ranging behaviour of a territorial male Black-Backed Jackal in a small stock farming area in the Southern Free State. Indago 37: 67–76. ISSN 0067-9208.

Rémi Allio, Marie-Ka Tilak, Celine Scornavacca, Nico L. Avenant, Andrew C Kitchener, Erwan Corre, Benoit Nabholz, and Frédéric Delsuc. 2021. High quality carnivore genomes using hybrid assembly from roadkill enable species delimitation in aardwolf and bat-eared fox. eLife 2021;10:e63167. DOI: https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.63167

David L. Bergman, Nico L. Avenant, Michael J. Bodenchuk & Eddie Steenkamp 2020. Developing Alternatives to Protect Domestic Sheep from Predation in South Africa. Proceedings, 29th Vertebrate Pest Conference (D. M. Woods, Ed.). Pp.1-7. ISSN 0507-6773.

Guila Ganem, Claire Marie Soleil Dufour, Nico L. Avenant, Pierre Caminade, Seth J. Eiseb, Christelle Tougard & Neville Pillay 2020. An update on the distribution and diversification of Rhabdomys sp. (Muridae, Rodentia). J. Vertebr. Biol. 69(2): 1-17. DOI: 10.25225/jvb.20013.

Avenant N.L., Smit G.N., Du Plessis J.J. 2019. Changes in small mammal community structure following open-cast mining in central South Africa: an indicator of ecosystem integrity? In: BRYJA J. & MEHERETU Y. (Eds.): The 13th African Small Mammal Symposium, 16-21 September, 2019. Programme and Abstract Book. Published by: Institute of Vertebrate Biology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65 Brno, Czech Republic First Edition, Brno 2019. ISBN 978-80-87189-27-6.

Claire M. S. Dufour, Neville Pillay, Nico Avenant, Johan Watson, Etienne Loire and Guila Ganem. 2019. Habitat characteristics and species interference influence space use and nest-site occupancy: Implications for social variation in two sister species. Oikos 128 (4): 503-516.

Paine OCC, Leichliter JN, Avenant N, Codron D, Lawrence A, Sponheimer M. 2019. The ecomorphology of southern African rodent incisors: Potential applications to the hominin fossil record. PLoS ONE 14(2): e0205476. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0205476.

David L. Bergman, Nico Avenant, Francoais Schutte & Michael J. Bodenchuk 2019. Providing Education to Enhance Wildlife Conservation in South Africa Through the First Wildlife School for Game Ranchers - a Grassroots Effort by Government Authorized Conservationists. Proceedings of the 18th Wildlife Damage Management Conference. (J.B. Armstrong, G.R. Gallagher, Eds.). 2019. Pp. 68-76.

Kerley, G.I.H., Behrens, K.G., Carruthers, J., Diemont, M., Du Plessis, J., Minnie, L., Somers, M.J., Tambling, C.J., Turpie, J., Wilson, S. & Balfour, D. 2019. Building assessment practice and lessons from the scientific assessment on livestock predation in South Africa. South African Journal of Science 115: 1-4

Kerley, G.I.H., Behrens, K.G., Carruthers, J., Diemont, M., du Plessis, J., Minnie, L., Somers, M.J., Tambling, C.J., Turpie, J., Wilson, S.L. & Balfour, D. 2018. Summary for Policymakers. In: Livestock predation and its management in South Africa: a scientific assessment (Eds Kerley, G.I.H., Wilson, S.L. & Balfour, D.). Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 7-14.

Jacqueline Codron, Nico L Avenant, Corli Wigley-Coetzee, Daryl Codron. 2018. Carnivore stable carbon isotope niches reflect predator-prey size relationships in African savannas. Integrative Zoology 13: 166-179.

Du Plessis, J.J., Avenant, N.L., Botha, A., Mkhize, N.R., Müller, L., Mzileni, N., O’Riain, M.J., Parker, D.M., Potgieter, G., Richardson, P.R.K., Rode, S., Viljoen, N. Hawkins, H-J., Tafani, M. 2018. Past and current management of predation on livestock. In: Livestock predation and its management in South Africa: a scientific assessment (Eds Kerley, G.I.H., Wilson, S.L. & Balfour, D.). Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 125-177.

Minnie, L., Avenant, N.L., Drouilly, M. & Samuels, I. 2018. Biology and ecology of the black-backed jackal and the caracal. In: Livestock predation and its management in South Africa: a scientific assessment (Eds Kerley, G.I.H., Wilson, S.L. & Balfour, D.). Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 178-204.

Tambling, C.J., Avenant, N.L., Drouilly, M. & Melville, H.I.A.S. 2018. The Role Of Mesopredators In Ecosystems: Potential Effects Of Managing Their Populations On Ecosystem Processes And Biodiversity. In: Livestock predation and its management in South Africa: a scientific assessment (Eds Kerley, G.I.H., Wilson, S.L. & Balfour, D.). Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 205-254.

Claire M.-S. Dufour, Guila Ganem, Neville Pillay & Nico L. Avenant 2018. Habitat characteristics and species interference influence space use and nest-site occupancy: implications for social variation in two rodent sister species. Proceedings of the Joint Conference of the Rodens et Spatium and International Conference of Rodent Biology and Management (ISSN 1868-9892, ISBN 978-3-95547-059-3; DOI 10.5073/jka.2018.459.000). Page 58.

Nico Avenant, Jurie du Plessis & Nico Smit 2018. Rodents as indicators of the ecological impact of an open-cast iron mine in central South Africa. Proceedings of the Joint Conference of the Rodens et Spatium and International Conference of Rodent Biology and Management (ISSN 1868-9892, ISBN 978-3-95547-059-3; DOI 10.5073/jka.2018.459.000). Page 165.

Jacques de Klerk & Nico Avenant. 2017. Small mammal succession in rehabilitated areas: further evidence in support of their status as ecological indicators in southern Africa. Indago 33: 49-56.

McKenzie, V.J., Song, S., Delsuc, F., Prest, T.L., Oliverio, A.M., Korpita, T.M., Alexiev, A., Amato, K.R., Metcalf, J.L., Kowalewski, M., Avenant, N.L, Link, A., Di Fiore, T., Seguin-Orlando, A., Feh, C., Orlando, L., Mendelson, J.R., Sanders, J. & Knight, R. 2017. The effects of captivity on the mammalian gut microbiome. Integrative and Comparative Biology 57: 690-704.

Jennifer Leichliter, Paul Sandberg, Benjamin Passey, Daryl Codron, Nico Avenant, Oliver Paine, Jacqueline Codron, Darryl de Ruiter, Matt Sponheimer. 2017. Stable carbon isotope ecology of modern small mammals from the Sterkfontein Valley: Implications for habitat reconstruction in mosaic environments. Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology 485: 57-67.

Kerley, G.I.H., Behrens, K.G., Carruthers, J., Diemont, M., du Plessis, J., Minnie, L., Richardson, P.R.K., Somers, M.J., Tambling, G.J., Turpie, J., Van Niekerk, H.N. & Balfour, D. 2017. Livestock predation in South Africa: the need for and value of a scientific assessment. South African Journal of Science 113: 1-3.

Jennifer Leichliter, Matt Sponheimer, Nico Avenant, Paul Sandberg, Oliver Paine, Daryl Codron, Jacqueline Codron, Ben Passey. 2016. Small mammal insectivore stable carbon isotope compositions as habitat proxies in a South African savanna ecosystem. Journal of Archaeological Science 8:335-345.

Jenny H.E. Burgman, Jennifer Leichliter, Nico L. Avenant & Peter S. Ungar. 2016. Dental microwear of sympatric rodent species sampled across habitats in southern Africa: Implications for environmental influence. Integrative Zoology 11: 111–127.

Morgan L. Hauptfleisch & Nico L. Avenant. 2016. Actual and perceived collision risk for bird strikes at Namibian airports. Ostrich 87(2): 161-171.

Jacqueline Codron, Kevin J. Duffy, Nico L. Avenant, Matt Sponheimer, Jennifer Leichliter, Oliver Paine, Paul Sandberg and Daryl Codron. 2015. Stable Isotope Evidence for Trophic Niche Partitioning in a South African Savanna Rodent Community. Current Zoology 61(3): 397 - 411.

Morgan L. Hauptfleisch & Nico L. Avenant. 2015. Integrating small mammal community variables into aircraft-wildlife collision management plans at Namibian airports. Integrative Zoology 10(6): 515-530.

Du Plessis, J.J., Avenant, N.L. & De Waal, H.O. 2015. Quality and Quantity of the Scientific Information Available on Black-Backed Jackals and Caracals: Contributing to Human - Predator Conflict Management? African Journal of Wildlife Research 45(2): 138–157.

Claire M.S. Dufour, Christine Meynard, Johan Watson, Camille Rioux, Simon Benhamou, Julie Perez, Jurie J. du Plessis, Nico Avenant, Neville Pillay and Guila Ganem. 2015. Space use variation in co-occurring sister species: response to environmental variation or competition? PLOS ONE 10(2):1-15.

Avenant, N.L. 2014. Rodent Biology and Management. Navorsinge van die Nasionale Museum, Bloemfontein. 30(3): i-ii (Editorial).

William G. Breed, Chris M. Leigh, Ken P. Aplin, Adel A. Shahin & Nico L. Avenant. 2014. Morphological diversity and evolution of the spermatozoon in the mouse-relared clade of rodents. Journal of Morphology 275: 540–547.

C.M. Kneidinger, H. van Heerden, D. MacFadyen , M. van der Merwe, N.L. Avenant & H. van der Bank. 2014. Species identification, habitat preferences and population genetics of Mastomys natalensis (A. Smith, 1834) and M. coucha (A. Smith, 1836) in an enclosed area, Kruger National Park, South Africa. Navorsinge van die Nasionale Museum, Bloemfontein 30(3): 31-45.

Gail C. Potgieter, Laurie L. Marker, Nico L. Avenant & Graham I. H. Kerley. 2013. Why Namibian farmers are satisfied with the performance of their livestock guarding dogs. Human Dimensions of Wildlife 18(6): 403-415.

Morgan L. Hauptfleisch, Nico L. Avenant & Alton Tsowaseb. 2013. A first analysis of Aircraft-Wildlife Collisions at two major Namibian airports, by, South African Journal of Wildlife Research 43(2): 177–184.

Bergman, D.L., De Waal, H.O., Avenant, N.L., Bodenchuk, M.J., Marlow, M.C. & Nolte, D.L. 2013. The need to address black-backed jackal and caracal predation in South Africa. Proceedings of the 15th Wildlife Damage Management Conference (J. B. Armstrong, G. R. Gallagher, Eds). P. 86-94.

Avenant, N.L. 2013. Pelea capreolus. In: Kingdon, J.S. & Hoffmann, M. (Eds). The Mammals of Africa. Vol. 6. Pigs, Deer, Giraffe, Bovids, and Hippos. Bloomsbury Publishing, London.

Avenant, N.L. 2013. Redunca fulvorufula. In: Kingdon, J.S. & Hoffmann, M. (Eds). The Mammals of Africa. Vol. 6. Pigs, Deer, Giraffe, Bovids, and Hippos. Bloomsbury Publishing, London.

MacFadyen, D.N., Avenant, N.L., Van der Merwe, M. & Bredenkamp, G.J. 2012. The influence of fire on small mammal abundance at the N’washitshumbe enclosure site, Kruger National Park, South Africa. African Zoology 47:138-146.

Olbricht,G., Sliwa, A. & Avenant, N.L. 2012. Sengi research in the Free State, South Africa.Afrotherian Conservation News 9: 7-8.

Avenant, N.L. 2011. The potential utility of rodents and other small mammals as indicators of ecosystem integrity of South African grasslands. Wildlife Research 38: 626-639.

Avenant, N.L. 2011. Recent progress in Rodent Biology and Management. Integrative Zoology 6:297-298 (Editorial).

Hugo-Coetzee, E.A. & Avenant, N.L. 2011.The effect of fire on soil oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatida) in a South African grassland. Zoosymposia 6:191–201.

Kaiser, W., Avenant, N.L. & Haddad, C.R. 2009. Assessing the ecological integrity of a grassland ecosystem: refining the SAGraSS method. Afr.J.Ecol. 47: 308–317.

Van der Merwe, S.J., Avenant, N.L. & Lues, J.F.R. 2009. Pastoral farming and wildlife management influences on lion/livestock interaction in the Kgalagadi-South, Botswana: a synopsis. Journal for New Generation Sciences 7(1): 203-214.

Avenant, N.L. & Du Plessis, J.J. 2008. Sustainable small stock farming and ecosystem conservation in southern Africa: a role for small mammals. Mammalia 72:258-263.

Avenant, N.L., Watson, J.P. & Schulze, E. 2008. Correlating small mammal community characteristics and habitat integrity in the Caledon Nature Reserve, South Africa. Mammalia 72:186-191.

Kaiser, W., Avenant, N.L. & Haddad, C.R. 2008. Assessing the ecological integrity of a grassland ecosystem: refining the SAGraSS method. Afr.J.Ecol. (Early online)

Herrmann, E., Kamler, J.F.& Avenant, N.L. 2008. New records of servals Leptailurus serval in central South Africa. S.Afr.J.Wildl.Res. 38:185-188.

Avenant, N.L. & Cavallini, P. 2007. Correlating rodent community structure with ecological integrity, Tussen-die-Riviere Nature Reserve, Free State Province, South Africa. Integrative Zoology 2:212-219.

Avenant, N.L. & Cavallini, P. 2006. Correlating rodent community structure with ecological integrity, Tussen-die-Riviere Nature Reserve, Free State Province, South Africa. Peer reviewed abstract published in book (= proceedings), International Conference on Rodent Biology and Management, Hanoi, Vietnam, September 2006.

Avenant, N.L. & De Waal, H.O. 2006. The potential importance of rodents in managing two problem carnivores, and subsequently in promoting ecosystem conservation and sustainable small stock farming practises in southern Africa. Peer reviewed abstract published in book (= proceedings), International Conference on Rodent Biology and Management, Hanoi, Vietnam, September 2006.

Kaiser, W.& Avenant, N.L. 2006. The importance if including rodents in veld condition assessments: a case study. Peer reviewed abstract published in book (= proceedings), International Conference on Rodent Biology and Management, Hanoi, Vietnam, September 2006.

Avenant, N.L. & Van der Merwe, M. 2006. Expansion of the greater cane rat, Thryonomys swinderianus, into the drier parts of Southern Africa. Peer reviewed abstract published in book (= proceedings), International Conference on Rodent Biology and Management, Hanoi, Vietnam, September 2006.

Avenant, N.L., De Waal, H.O. & Combrinck, W. 2006. The Canis-Caracal Programme: a holistic approach. Proceedings to the national Workshop on the holistic management of human-wildlife conflict in South Africa, 10 - 13 April 2006, Ganzekraal Conference Centre, Western Cape. Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 2005. Barn owl pellets: a useful tool for monitoring small mammal communities? Belgian Journal of Zoology 135:39-43.

Avenant, N.L. & Smith, V.R. 2004. Seasonal changes in age class structure and reproductive status of house mice on Marion Island (sub-Antarctic). Polar Biology 27:99-111

Van der Merwe, M. & Avenant, N.L. 2004. The Greater cane rat, Thryonomys swinderianus, is a pest species that is expanding its range in southern Africa. Navors.nas.Mus.,Bloemfontein 20: III-X.

Avenant, N.L. 2003. The use of small-mammal community characteristics as an indicator of ecological disturbance in the Korannaberg Conservancy. In: Rats, Mice & People: Rodent Biology and Management (eds. Singleton, G.R., Hinds, L.A., Krebs, C.J. & Spratt, D.M.). ACIAR Monograph No. 96, 564p.

Avenant, N.L. & Smith, V.R. 2003. The microenvironment of house mice on Marion Island (sub-Antarctic). Polar Biology 26:129-141.

Ferreira, S.M. & Avenant, N.L. 2003. Influences of trap-spacing on descriptors of hypothetical small mammal communities in Free State grasslands. Navors.nas.Mus.,Bloemfontein 19:21-30.

Avenant, N.L. & Nel, J.A.J. 2002. Among habitat variation in prey availability and use by caracal Felis caracal. Mamm. Biol. 67:18-33.

Avenant, N.L. & Watson, J.P. 2002. Mammals recorded in the Sandveld Nature Reserve, Free State province, South Africa. Navors.nas.Mus.,Bloemfontein 18(1):1-12.

Smith, V.R., Avenant, N.L. & Chown, S.L. 2002. Feeding ecology of Marion Island house mice. Polar Biology 25:703-715.

Avenant, N.L. & Kuyler, P. 2002. Small mammal diversity in the Maguga area, Swaziland. S. Afr. J. Wildl. Res. 32:101-108.

Avenant, N.L. 2000a. Small mammal community characteristics as indicators of ecological disturbance in the Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve, Free State, South Africa. S. Afr. J. Wildl. Res. 30:26-33.

Avenant, N.L. 2000b. Terrestrial small-mammal diversity in Korannaberg Conservancy, Free State, South Africa. Navors.nas.Mus.,Bloemfontein 16:69-82.

Avenant, N.L. & Nel, J.A.J. 1998. Home range use, activity and density of caracal in relation to prey density. Afr.J.Ecol. 36:347-359.

Avenant, N.L. 1997. Mammals recorded in the Qwa Qwa National Park (1994-1995). Koedoe 40:31-40.

Avenant, N.L. & Nel, J.A.J. 1997. Prey use by four syntopic carnivores in a strandveld ecosystem. S.Afr.J.Wildl.Res. 27:86-93.

Avenant, N.L. 1996. Identification and distribution of two Mastomys spp. in Lesotho and part of South Africa. Navors.nas.Mus.,Bloemfontein 12:49-58.

LYNCH, C.D. 1994. The mammals of Lesotho. Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 10(4):177-241.

DU TOIT, J.S., FOURIE, L.J. & HORAK, I.G. 1994. Sequential feeding of Ixodes rubicundus on its natural host, Elephantulus myurus: effects on tick mass and on engorgement and moulting success. Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research 61:143-147.

DU TOIT, J.S., FOURIE, L.J. & HORAK, I.G. 1994. Detachment rhytms of immature Ixodes rubicundus from their natural host, the rock elephant shrew (Elephantulus myurus). Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research 61:149-153.

DU TOIT, J.S. & FOURIE, L.J. 1994. The effect of feeding immature Karoo paralysis ticks Ixodes rubicundus (Acari: Ixodidae) on the metabolic rate of the rock elephant shrew. Experimental & Applied Acarology 18

DU TOIT, J.S. & FOURIE, L.J. 1993. Bait preferences of rock elephant shrews. S.Afr.J.Wildl.Res. 22:115-117.

KOK, D.J., FOURIE, L.J. & DU TOIT, J.S. 1992. The occurrence of the gall bladder trematode, Euparadistomum, in some lizards of the genera Cordylus and Pseudocordylus in South Africa. J. Herpetol. Assoc. Afr. 40:50.

LYNCH, C.D. & WATSON, J.P. 1992. The distribution and ecology of Otomys sloggetti (Mammalia: Rodentia) with notes on its taxonomy. Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 8(3):141-158.

LYNCH, C.D. 1991. Population dynamics in the Lesser dwarf shrew, Suncus varilla (Mammalia: Soricidae). Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 7(9):465-473.

LYNCH, C.D. 1990. Reproduction in the Lesser dwarf shrew, Suncus varilla (Mammalia: Soricidae). Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 7(3):45-59.

WATSON, J.P. 1990. The taxonomic status of the Slender mongoose. Galerella sanguinea (Rűppell, 1836) in Southern Africa. Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 6(10):351-492.

LYNCH, C.D. 1989. The mammals of the north-eastern Cape Province. Mem. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 25: 1-116.

LYNCH, C.D. & WATSON, J.P. 1989. The mammals of Sehlabathebe National Park, Lesotho. Report submitted to Natal Parks Board.

LYNCH, C.D. & WATSON, J.P. 1989. A mammal survey undertaken at Mateanong at the junction of the Mokhotlong and Senqubethu rivers, Lesotho. Report submitted to Natal Parks Board.

LYNCH, C.D. 1988. Occurrence of Squamata in the termitaria in the Orange Free State, South Africa. Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 34: 42-43.

WATSON, J.P. & DIPPENAAR, N.J. 1987. The species limits of Galerella sanguinea (Rűppell, 1836), G. pulverulenta (Wagner, 1839) and G. nigrata (Thomas, 1928) in Southern Africa (Carnivora: Viverridae). Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 5: 355-414.

LYNCH, C.D. 1986. The ecology of the Lesser dwarf shrew, Suncus varilla with reference to the use of termite mounds of Trinervitermes trinervoides. Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 5: 277-297.

LYNCH, C.D. 1985. Mammalian distribution patterns in the Orange Free State. Navors. nas. mus., Bloemfontein. 4(16): 473-500.

LYNCH, C.D. 1983. The mammals of the Orange Free State. Mem. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein. 18: 1-218.

LYNCH, C.D. 1982. Die versameling van werweldiere. Praktikum 5: 1-23.

LYNCH, C.D. 1982. Die preparering van soogdier- en voëlstudievelle en die skoonmaak van skedels en skelette. Praktikum 7: 1-27.

LYNCH, C.D. 1981. The status of the Cape grey mongoose, Herpestes pulverulentus Wagner, 1839 (Mammalia: Viverridae). Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 4(5): 121-168.

LYNCH, C.D. 1980. Ecology of the suricate, Suricata suricatta, and the yellow mongoose, Cynictis penicillata, with special reference to their reproduction. Mem. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein. 14: 1-145.

KOK, O.B., LYNCH, C.D. & Van EE, C.A. 1979. Kommentaar m.b.t. die silwerjakkals. Bylae tot OVS Provinsiale Administrasie kommissie Verslag. 4pp.

POTGIETER, T.D. (Voorsitter), OLIVIER, P.J.S., PRINSLOO, H.F., KOK, O.B.,LYNCH, C.D., VAN EE, C.A., & LE ROUX, P.J. 1979. Verslag van die kommissie van ondersoek na ongedierte-bestryding en rondloperhonde in die Oranje-Vrystaat. OVS Provinsiale Administrasie. 50pp.

LYNCH, C.D. 1975. The distribution of mammals in the Orange Free State, South Africa. Navors. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 3(6): 109-139.

LYNCH, C.D. 1974. A behavioural study of Blesbok, Damaliscus dorcas phillipsi, with special reference to territoriallity. Mem. nas. Mus., Bloemfontein 8: 1-83.

VON RICHTER, W., LYNCH, C.D. & WESSELS, T. 1972. Status and distribution of the larger mammal species on farmland in the Orange Free State. Nat. Con. Res. Report 1. O.F.S. Prov. Admin.: 1-28.

Publications - Scientific Reports

Avenant, N.L. & Nel, J.A.J. 1996. Mammals. In: Baseline Biology Survey and Reserve Development, Phase 1B, Mohale Dam, Lesotho. Final Report, LHDA Contract 1008, AfriDev Consultants, Darling, South Africa.

Irish, J., Avenant, N.L. & Lotz, L. 1997. Kogelbeengrot: verslag m.b.t. potensiële toerisme-ontwikkeling. Pp. 19. Unpublished report to the Griekwastad Publicity Organisation.

Avenant, N.L. 1998. Mammals. EIA Contract work: Maguga Dam, Swaziland. Work done for Afridev Consultants, Darling, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 1999. The ecology and ecophysiology of the Marion Island house mouse, Mus musculus L. Ph.D. thesis, University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein.

Avenant, N.L. 2002. Mammals. In: Biological Monitoring, Mohale. LHDA Contract 1053. National University of Lesotho, Roma, Lesotho.

Avenant, N.L. 2002. Mammals. In: Letseng-la-Letsie Protected Area - Fencing and Reintroduction of Large Mammals. Part of the program Conserving Mountain Biodiversity in Southern Lesotho. National University of Lesotho, Roma, Lesotho.

Avenant, N.L. 2002. Mammals. In: Development on Mohale Island. Geo Pollution Technologies, Bloemfontein, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 2002. Mammals. In: Ladybrand solid waste site – scoping report. Geo Pollution Technologies, Bloemfontein, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 2002. Mammals. In: Integrated Development Plan for Mangaung; State of the Environment Report. Spatial Solutions Inc., Bloemfontein, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 2003. Mammals. In: Biological Monitoring, Mohale. LHDA Contract 1053. National University of Lesotho, Roma, Lesotho.

Avenant, N.L. 2003. Mammals. In: Faunal Rescue Program, Mohale. National University of Lesotho, Roma, Lesotho.

Avenant, N.L. 2004. Mammal report. Submitted to UNDP, Lesotho, as part of the “Conserving Mountain Biodiversity in Southern Lesotho” program.

Avenant, N.L. 2006. Residential Development in Theunissen: Mammals. Scoping report prepared for Bokamoso Environmental, Bloemfontein, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 2006. Mammal report, MDTP Biodiversity Assessment. Contract GEF/002. Maloti Drakensberg Ecology Consultants.

Avenant, N.L. 2007. Mammals and the Senqu Sources Biosphere Reserve. In: Strategic Environmental Assessment for the proposed Senqu Sources Protected Area, Maloti Drakensberg Transfrontier Project. Strategic Environmental Focus, Lynwood Ridge, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L. 2008. Mammals of the Free State Botanical Gardens, Bloemfontein. Report to Mnr. P. Gavhi, SANBI.

Avenant, N.L. 2008. CN Code: the mammals and herpetofauna at Beatrix Main and Beatrix No. 4 slime dam complexes. Report to H₂ON Environmental Specialists, Bloemfontein.

Avenant, N.L. 2010. Bio-monitoring protocol, mammals. Submitted to Kumba Iron Ore Mines. Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein.

Avenant, N.L. 2011. Small mammal report, In: Zietsman, P.C, Seaman, M.T., Smit, G.N., Avenant, N., Buschke, F.T., Adendorff, J., Janse van Rensburg, G., Deacon, F., du Plessis, J. & Zietsman, L.E. 2011. Integrated Report on Biomonitoring at Kolomela Mine, Kumba Iron Ore. Centre for Environmental Management, Univerity of the Free State.

Avenant, N.L. & Du Plessis, J.J. 2012. Letšeng Expansion Project: Project Kholo. Mammal Specialist Report, for Environmental Resources Management (Southern Africa) Pty Ltd.

Avenant, N.L. 2013. Small mammal monitoring on Kolomela mine properties, Postmasburg – 2012 season. Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein.

Avenant, N.L. 2013. Field report: Mammal monitoring. LHDA Contract 1273, Biological Resource Monitoring within Phase 1 of the LHWP Catchments. Anchor Environmental.

Avenant, N.L. 2014. Field report 2014/1, Project nr. 1.2, Mammals, on Biomonitoring at Kolomela Mine, Kumba Iron Ore. Centre for Environmental Management, Univerity of the Free State.

Avenant, N.L. 2014. Small mammal monitoring on Kolomela mine properties, Postmasburg – 2013 season. Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein.

Avenant, N., Du Plessis, J. & Senoge, J. 2014. Mammals of the Mohale Dam catchment. Specialist report for Contract 1273: Biological Resources Monitoring within Phase 1 of the LHWP Catchments 2013-14. Report no. AEC/14/12 submitted by Anchor Environmental Consultants to the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority.

Du Plessis, J., Avenant, N. & Putsane, T. 2014. Mammals of the Katse Dam catchment. Specialist report for Contract 1273: Biological Resources Monitoring within Phase 1 of the LHWP Catchments 2013-14. Report no. AEC/14/12 submitted by Anchor Environmental Consultants to the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority.

Jane Turpie, Nigel Barker, Barry Clark, Gerhard Diedericks, Gary Marneweck, David Allan, James Harvey, Nico Avenant & Katherine Forsythe. 2014. State of the Mohale Dam Catchment: synthesis of the 2013/14 monitoring studies. Contract 1273: Biological Resources Monitoring within Phase 1 of the LHWP Catchments 2013-14. Report submitted by Anchor Environmental Consultants to the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority.

Jane Turpie, Nigel Barker, Barry Clark, Gerhard Diedericks, Gary Marneweck, David Allan, James Harvey, Nico Avenant & Katherine Forsythe. 2014. State of the Katse Dam Catchment: synthesis of the 2013/14 monitoring studies. Contract 1273: Biological Resources Monitoring within Phase 1 of the LHWP Catchments 2013-14. Report submitted by Anchor Environmental Consultants to the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority.

Nico Avenant & Jurie du Plessis 2016. Small mammal monitoring on Kolomela mine properties, Postmasburg: 2015 results, and changes experienced since 2011. Report submitted to the Kolomela Mine.

Turpie, J.K., Forsythe, K., Reinecke, K., Diedericks, G., Dijkstra, K.D., Collins, S., Branch, W., Davies, T., Allan, D. & Avenant, N. 2016. Biodiversity of the Elephant Marsh; sub-study 4: Climate resilient livelihoods and sustainable natural resource management in the Elephant Marsh, Malawi. Anchor Environmental, Cape Town. 444 pages.

Taylor WA, Avenant NL, Schulze E, Viljoen P, Child MF. 2016. A conservation assessment of Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Du Plessis J, Peel M, Child MF. 2016. A conservation assessment of Redunca arundinum. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Du Plessis J, Russo IM-R, Child MF. 2016. A conservation assessment of Mastomys spp. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Du Plessis J, Swanepoel LH, McDonough M, Schoeman C. 2016. A conservation assessment of Gerbilliscus leucogaster. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Watson J, du Plessis J, Relton C. 2016. A conservation assessment of Gerbilliscus brantsii. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Taylor A, Cowell C, Drouilly M, Schulze E, Avenant N, Birss C, Child MF. 2016. A conservation assessment of Pelea capreolus. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Okes N, Ponsonby DW, Rowe-Rowe D, Avenant NL, Somers MJ. 2016. A conservation assessment of Aonyx capensis. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Light J, Pillay N, Avenant NL, Child MF 2016. A conservation assessment of Atelerix frontalis. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Avenant NL, Power RJ, MacFadyen D, Child MF. 2016. A conservation assessment of Thryonomys swinderianus. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Avenant, N.L., Drouilly, M., Power, R.J., Thorn, M., Martins, Q., Neils, A., du Plessis, J. & Do Linh San E. 2016. A conservation assessment of Caracal caracal. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Avenant NL, MacEwan K, Balona J, Cohen L, Jacobs D, Monadjem A, Richards L, Schoeman C, Sethusa T, Taylor PJ. 2016. A conservation assessment of Cistugo lesueuri. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Avenant NL, Wilson B, Power RJ, Palmer G, Child MF. 2016. A conservation assessment of Mystromys albicaudatus. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Avenant NL, Balona J, Cohen L, Jacobs D, MacEwan K, Monadjem A, Richards LR, Schoeman C, Sethusa T, Taylor, P. 2016. A conservation assessment of Laephotis wintoni. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Do Linh San E, Palmer G, Stuart C, Cavallini P, Avenant NL. 2016. A conservation assessment of Herpestes pulverulentus. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Minnie L, Avenant NL, Kamler J, Butler H, Parker D, Drouilly M, du Plessis J, Do Linh San E. 2016. A conservation assessment of Canis mesomelas. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Le Roux A, Balmforth Z, Mbatyoti OA, Bizani M, Avenant NL, Do Linh San E. 2016. A conservation assessment of Cynictis penicillata. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Nico Avenant & Jurie du Plessis 2016. Small mammal monitoring on Kolomela mine properties, Postmasburg: 2015 results, and changes experienced since 2011. Report submitted to the Kolomela Mine. 19 pages.

N.L. Avenant & J.P. du Plessis 2017. Using small mammals to monitor the ecological integrity at Kolomela Mine, Postmasburg: 2011 to 2016. Environmental assessment report submitted to Kolomela Mine, Postmasburg. 20 pages.

N.L. Avenant & J.P. du Plessis 2018a. Small mammals as ecological indicator: Kolomela Mine, 2011 to 2017. Environmental assessment report submitted to Kolomela Mine, Postmasburg. 19 pages.

Nico Avenant and Jurie du Plessis 2018b. Small mammals as ecological indicator: Kolomela Mine, 2011 to 2018. Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein. 22 pages.

Also contributed, amongst others, to the:

following African Chiroptera Reports: ACR2019; ACR 2018; ACR 2017; ACR 2016; ACR 2015; ACR 2014; ACR 2013; ACR 2012; ACR 2011; ACR 2010.

Senqu Sources Management Plan, Maloti Drakensberg Transfrontier Project (2008). Strategic Environmental Focus, Lynnwood Ridge, Pretoria.

Free State Environment Summit Report 2008. Department of Tourism, Environmental and Economic Affairs, Bloemfontein.

Free State Province Environment Outlook Report 2009. Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Free State Province, Bloemfontein.

ERM 2010. Critical Habitat Assessment, Lesotho Highlands. Ecological Resources Management Southern Africa, Cape Town.

Publications - Scientific Reports (Copy and paste everything)