Variety of Mammals (Dietary Classes and Body Sizes) on a Catena in Savanna Biome, Kruger National Park, South Africa.

Catenas are undulating hillslopes on a granite geology characterised by different soil types that create an environmental gradient (zones) from crest to bottom. Main aim was to determine mammal species (>mongoose) present on one catenal slope and its waterholes over three short survey periods. A total of 33 mammal species were observed with camera traps: 18 herbivore species, 10 carnivores, two insectivores, and three omnivore species. Eight species were small mammals, two dwarf antelopes, 11 medium, six large and six mega-sized mammals. Species richness was highest at waterholes (22 species), followed by midslope (19) and sodic patch (16) on the catena. Small differences were noted in species presence between different zones, and survey periods, but were not significant (p = 0.5267; p = 0.9139, respectively). Some species might not have been recorded because of drought, seasonal movement, or because they travelled outside the view of cameras. Movement of mammals inside Kruger Park is not restricted, except if they are bound by territorial boundaries, available space, or if they are habitat specific. Presence of different sized mammals from different feeding guilds possibly indicates a functioning catenal ecosystem. This knowledge can be beneficial in monitoring and conservation of species in the park.