In an exciting turn of events, conservationists are celebrating the rediscovery of the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani), a fascinating mammal that has eluded researchers for 46 years. The tiny creature was observed on the edge of a pristine forest patch in CapeNature’s Boosmansbos Wilderness Area, bringing joy and relief to ecology experts and volunteers alike.
Originally described in 1979 by scientist Nico Dippenaar, this unique subspecies is geographically isolated from its relatives in the Gouritz Valley. Its limited range and habitat disruptions resulting from forest loss and climate change have contributed to its Critically Endangered status on the IUCN Red List since 2016.
The momentous finding came during a survey conducted from May 3 to 6, a culmination of four strenuous attempts over four years. Dr Marienne de Villiers, an ecologist with CapeNature, expressed her joy at finally ticking this elusive mammal off her “biological bucket list”, likening the experience to encountering a unicorn—a mystical being she once thought was beyond reach. “And it’s really comforting to know that at least part of its population, in at least some of its forest habitats, is well-protected,” she added.
Previous efforts to capture the shrew using conventional live traps had yielded no success, leading the team to seek innovative methods for their final attempt. Transporting necessary equipment to the remote area with no vehicle access proved challenging. However, the Helihack initiative rescued the mission by using helicopters to transport the team and their gear to inaccessible portions of the wilderness.
In collaboration with CapeNature, Helihack has made significant progress in mitigating threats to the World Heritage Site, specifically invasive alien pines that endanger its biodiversity. Upon being airlifted to a designated campsite, the dedicated team set out to establish 76 pitfall traps across varied habitats, meticulously preparing each with bedding, shelter, and the occasional earthworm to ensure humane treatment.
Initially, the traps seemed cursed—yielding no initial captures—but perseverance paid off on May 4, when one of the final traps revealed a small mammal sporting a 6 cm tail, unmistakably identifiable as the long-lost Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew. Measuring a mere 13.7 grams, the creature was carefully weighed, photographed, and subsequently released unharmed back into its natural setting.
This remarkable rediscovery exemplifies the collaborative spirit and commitment of a skilled network of conservationists, biologists, and volunteers, all devoted to enhancing the diversity and health of the Boosmansbos area. A genetic sample of the shrew will now undergo analysis to determine its relationship with lower-altitude relatives. Additionally, further research is crucial to understanding its life history, behavioural ecology, and the prevalence of its known population. Determined surveys of other forest patches may yet unveil more about this enchanting species.
For now, however, there is much to celebrate—the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew is back, reminding us of the fragile beauty and astonishing resilience of our natural world.
