Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Direct Shipping Ore

Transcription

1 Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Direct Shipping Ore Addendum to Environmental and Social Impact Assessment: Additional Zoological Studies: Annex 5 Reptile Survey Report Baseline Data with additional observations on the amphibian fauna December 2011 Prepared for :

2 ArcelorMittal Liberia Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Project Revision Schedule Reptile Survey Report Baseline Data with additional observations on the amphibian fauna December 2011 Rev Date Details Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by 01 May 2011 Report Branch W R Reptile Specialist T Romanenko Project Manager G Hearn Technical Director 02 Dec 2011 Report Branch W R Reptile Specialist T Romanenko Project Manager G Hearn Technical Director URS Scott Wilson Scott House Alencon Link Basingstoke Hampshire RG21 7PP Tel : +44 (0) Fax :+44 (0)

3 ArcelorMittal Liberia Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Project Report Structure of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Section Main Report Annex 1 Annex 2 Report Title Addendum to Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for Phase 1. Additional Zoological Studies Survey of Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata) in Nimba County, Liberia. Dijkstra, K.-D.B Conservation Status of Bats (Chiroptera) Within the ArcelorMittal Liberia Concession, with Special Emphasis on the Phase 1 Footprint. Monadjem, A. Annex 3 Nimba Toad Survey (Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis liberiensis) Within the ArcelorMittal Liberia Concession Sandberger, L. & Loua, N.S. Annex 4 Herpetological Survey of the ArcelorMittal Concession, Yekepa, Liberia. Penner, J. Annex 5 Reptile Survey Report Baseline Data with Additional Observations on the Amphibian Fauna. County, Liberia. Branch, W R 3

4 ArcelorMittal Liberia Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Project Limitations URS Scott Wilson Ltd ( URS Scott Wilson ) has prepared this Report for the sole use of ArcelorMittal Liberia Ltd ( Client ) in accordance with Addendum No 1 to the Agreement under which our services were performed dated 06 September No other warranty, expressed or implied, is made as to the professional advice included in this Report or any other services provided by URS Scott Wilson. This Report is confidential and may not be disclosed by the Client nor relied upon by any other party without the prior and express written agreement of URS Scott Wilson. The conclusions and recommendations contained in this Report are based upon information provided by others and upon the assumption that all relevant information has been provided by those parties from whom it has been requested and that such information is accurate. Information obtained by URS Scott Wilson has not been independently verified by URS Scott Wilson, unless otherwise stated in the Report. The methodology adopted and the sources of information used by URS Scott Wilson in providing its services are outlined in this Report. The work described in this Report was undertaken between September 2010 and September 2011 and is based on the conditions encountered and the information available during the said period of time. The scope of this Report and the services are accordingly factually limited by these circumstances. Where assessments of works or costs identified in this Report are made, such assessments are based upon the information available at the time and where appropriate are subject to further investigations or information which may become available. URS Scott Wilson disclaim any undertaking or obligation to advise any person of any change in any matter affecting the Report, which may come or be brought to URS Scott Wilson s attention after the date of the Report. Certain statements made in the Report that are not historical facts may constitute estimates, projections or other forward-looking statements and even though they are based on reasonable assumptions as of the date of the Report, such forward-looking statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results predicted. URS Scott Wilson specifically does not guarantee or warrant any estimate or projections contained in this Report. Unless otherwise stated in this Report, the assessments made assume that the sites and facilities will continue to be used for their current purpose without significant changes. Where field investigations are carried out, these have been restricted to a level of detail required to meet the stated objectives of the services. The results of any measurements taken may vary spatially or with time and further confirmatory measurements should be made after any significant delay in issuing this Report. Copyright This Report is the copyright of URS Scott Wilson Ltd. Any unauthorised reproduction or usage by any person other than the addressee is strictly prohibited. 4

5 ArcelorMittal Liberia Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Project Table of Contents 1 Introduction Objectives and Terms of Reference Limitations and Assumptions Study Area Mount Nimba Methodology Field Surveys Night Walks and Drives Drift Fence and Funnel Trap Arrays Reptile Diversity Reptiles of Special Concern Threatened species, defined as: Sensitive species, defined here as: Literature Review History of studies on the fauna of Mont Nimba Studies on the Reptiles of Mount Nimba Lizards Snakes Chelonians and Crocodilians Reptile Surveys Results of drift fence trapping Cumulative species count Reptiles recorded Comments on reptiles recorded Geckos Agamas Skinks Snakes Scolecophidians Water snakes (Afronatrix and Grayia) Savannah File Snake (Gonionotophis crossi) White-lipped Snake (Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia) Keeled Green Snakes (Hapsidophrys) Large Tree Snake Reptiles unrecorded Day Gecko (Lygodactylus conraui) Rainbow Skink Mann s Blind Snake (Afrotyphlops manni) Egg-eating Snakes (Dasypeltis)

6 ArcelorMittal Liberia Liberia Western Range Iron Ore Phase 1 Project 5.6 Threatened and Endemic Reptiles Regional importance of the reptile diversity SENSITIVE HABITATS IMPACTS Loss and fragmentation of sensitive habitats Mitigation measures: Loss of Reptile Diversity Mitigation measures: Loss of Reptile species of special concern Mitigation measures: Disruption to faunal movements Mitigation measures: Invasion of alien species Mitigation measures: Increased fire risk Mitigation measures: Pollution Chemical pollution Mitigation measures for Chemical Pollution: Light pollution Mitigation measures for Light Pollution: Noise pollution Mitigation measures for Noise Pollution: Where possible blasting should be restricted to daylight hours Management Interventions Further studies Dangerous Snakes of the Mount Nimba region Mitigation measures: References APPENDIX 1. Observations on Amphibians APPENDIX 2. Notes on interesting or problematic species

7 1 Introduction 1.1 Objectives and Terms of Reference As part of the Phase 1 DSO Additional Faunal Studies the specific terms of reference for the reptile survey were: Field surveys in the proposed mine sites at Tokedah and Gangra/Yuelliton and in control sites in East Nimba Nature Reserve and the proposed West Nimba Forest Reserve, including the collation of GPS locations for all species records. A priority is to identify any globally threatened or endemic species present, and to build an understanding of the habitats and locations most important for these species Advise on the potential impacts of mining on reptiles, and on possible mitigation measures for these impacts. If mitigation is not possible, advise on potential offsets. The report should include the following: Review existing literature to establish the background to the value of the project area in the context of the wider Nimba range and Liberian context; Determine and summarize the baseline of the mine site (both intrinsically and in the context of local control sites, other parts of Liberian Nimba and the wider Nimba range). Determine the likely impacts of the mine and infrastructure proposals on reptiles with particular reference to the most notable species (IUCN criteria, UG endemics, etc.) and habitats; Identify appropriate mitigation measures for the impacts identified, and give detailed management prescriptions for implementing them. If mitigation is not possible, advise on offsets. 1.2 Limitations and Assumptions Only a single reptile survey was undertaken from 25 January 20 February Previous reports (Scott Wilson 2010; Bangoua et al.unpubl; Annex 3) commissioned for this project contained only anecdotal reptile observations, mostly unsupported by voucher specimens. These records were compiled and assessed in the current report, but no material was available for inspection and confirmation of identifications. Some photographic records (Annex 4) were available for inspection, and voucher material supporting most observations from that survey were available. Taxonomic knowledge of many regions in West Africa is poor and new reptiles are still frequently discovered; e.g. Bohme et al. 2000, Henle & Bohme 2003, Bauer et al. 2006, Wagner et al. 2009a, Leache & Fujita 2010, etc. A new frog was even described from Mt Nimba during the course of the present survey (Rodel & Hawes 2010), and it is probable that a number of other un-described species remain to be described from the region. Due to previous historical neglect knowledge of the herpetofauna in the Liberian Nimba region remains poor. Liberia lacks a modern synthesis of the reptiles of the region. National and International assessment of threatened taxa is restricted mainly to well-known groups, e.g. mammals and birds. No National list of threatened reptiles has been prepared for Liberia. Due to these limitations it has been necessary to adopt a precautionary approach when assessing herpetofaunal distributions and their conservation status. 7

8 2 Study Area 2.1 Mount Nimba Mount Nimba, along with the Loma Mountains in Sierra Leone and the Simandou and Ziama mountains in Guinea, constitute the Guinea backbone. These mountains lie some distance from one another, each dominating a relatively flat piedmont. The Mount Nimba range (Fig. 1.1) is an isolated uplift, about 40km long and 12km wide running in a north-east/south-west direction and that forms an immense barrier cutting across the region from southwest to northeast (Lamotte 1983). About ¾ of the range, and the highest point that rises to an altitude of 1768m, lies in Guinea, with a small part of the highest ridge extending into Cote d Ivoire, and the southern section tailing down into Liberia (Fig. 1.2). The highest point in the Liberian segment was Mount Alpha (about 1400m), but this has been lowered considerably by open cast mining operations during the LAMCO era. Figure. 1.1 Mount Nimba range looking north across the old LAMCO mine workings and the diminished Mt Alpha to Guinean Nimba. The Nimba Mountains have great topographical diversity, with valleys, plateaux, rounded hilltops, rocky peaks, abrupt cliffs, waterfalls and bare granite blocks; the whole area being a vast water catchment and reservoir. They are the source of the rivers Cavally (or Diougou) and Ya (or Nuon, the Mami River of Liberia) which cut deep richly forested valleys. The mountain range has a sub-equatorial montane climate subject to several influences. The south end of the range experiences the southwesterly monsoon from the ocean and the north end dry northeasterly harmattan winds from the desert. To seasonal changes are added two climatic gradients: altitudinal and along its length, also rain-shadowing, marked diurnal variations in temperature and a persistent daily belt of cloud above ~950 m. In the Liberian sector the mean minimum and maximum temperatures recorded are 14 C and 30 C respectively (17 and 23 on the peaks). The mean annual rainfall is about 3,000 millimetres (mm), but varies with elevation from ~1,750 mm at the base (1,430 mm at the north end) to ~3,300 mm on the peaks, also with aspect, ocean-facing slopes being wetter than north-facing rain shadowed slopes. The wettest months are usually April to November (May to November on the peaks). There is pronounced variation, but rainfall is usually heaviest from August to October. January is the driest month with a mean rainfall of 20 mm. Relative humidity in the mornings is 94% to 99%, dropping in the afternoon as much as 70-80%. A 8

9 mean minimum of 18% is recorded in January and February when dry frequently heavily dustladen winds blow from the desert. For much of the year, except during the dry season, a belt of dense cloud develops daily above 850 m and hangs halfway up the mountain. Figure 1.2 Map of northern Nimba, showing the locations of the mines on Mounts Tokedah, Gangra and Yuelliton relative to Yekepa and the main Nimba ridge. (from: The land surrounding the mountain range lies at an altitude of about 500m with a number of isolated hills, several of which attain 900m. In Liberia, the main Nimba range consists of the Nimba axis and a subsidiary Gbahm ridge, which leaves the former in the southwest and runs in a northerly direction. Between these two steep ridges is the Seca Valley, which is drained by the tributary of the Ya River. This river drains the whole western portion of the mountain and flows west to join the larger St John River. This region is most disturbed by earlier mining operations in Liberia. In the south-western region the Iti Valley is found, which is important since it is little disturbed by the mining operations (Coe, 1975). 9

10 3 Methodology 3.1 Field Surveys A site visit was made (23 January 21 February 2011) to assess herpetofauna diversity and habitat associations in the region. Due to the large area and diverse habitats in the region, effort was concentrated on the areas projected for mining during Phase 1 and Phase 2. Observations were also made in the adjacent East Nimba Nature Reserve (ENNR) to assess, a) herpetofauna diversity in relatively pristine habitats, and b) the potential of the ENNR to function as a protected refuge for reptiles and amphibians. The shortness of the visit precluded detailed herpetofauna surveys, and the time was also late in the main breeding seasons of amphibians and reptiles. However, the visit did permit an assessment of habitat diversity, the location of sensitive habitats such as wetlands and rock outcrops, and the extent and nature of environmental impacts resulting from existing and proposed land use. Amphibians and reptiles were mainly located opportunistically during visual surveys of all habitats, usually by two people. Surveys were undertaken during day and night. Search techniques included visual scanning of terrain and refuge examination (e.g. lifting rocks and logs, scraping through leaf litter, etc.). Accoustic monitoring was also applied in all available habitat types (Heyer et al. 1993). Rainfall was recorded during the early part of the field survey (January 24, 27-30, February 2 and 11). Amphibian and reptile activity declined in association with hotter and drier conditions during the latter half of the survey. Most records were based on visual recordings. 3.2 Night Walks and Drives Reptiles and amphibians were also collected during nine night walks undertaken along forest paths or forest streams, and two night drives undertaken on old LAMCO tarred forest roads in the East Nimba Nature Reserve. These ranged from 2-4 hour duration, and specimens were collected for identification and localities recorded 3.3 Drift Fence and Funnel Trap Arrays A series of drift fences (black plastic sheeting, 40cm high, with a 10cm flap flush on the ground and covered with soil/leaf litter) of variable length were tailored to local topography. Alongside these fences were installed funnel traps (either single- or double-ended). Trap arrays of various lengths, trap numbers and duration were installed (see Table 3.1 for details). This methodology provided only qualitative and semi-quantitative data. For quantitative data mark-recapture experiments along standardized transects or on plots would have been necessary. The duration and area to be covered during the survey was too limited to apply such methods. Trap Array Length (m) Number of traps Days installed Latitude Longitude Altitude (m asl.)

11 Trap Array Length (m) Number of traps Days installed Latitude Longitude Altitude (m asl.) '45.5" ,1 581 Total 157 Table 3.1 Location and details of the trap arrays 3.4 Reptile Diversity The known diversity of the terrestrial fauna in the Nimba region was determined by literature review. Species known from the region, or from adjacent regions whose preferred habitat(s) were known to occur within the study area, were also included. Literature sources are summarised in section Reptiles of Special Concern Compiled faunal checklists were reviewed for the presence of Species of Special Concern (SSC), including: Threatened species, defined as: Species listed in the Endangered or Vulnerable categories in the revised IUCN Red List 2010; and Possible threatened species (i.e. taxa currently un-assessed in the IUCN Red List 2010 whose conservation status has been highlighted subsequently) Sensitive species, defined here as: Those species listed in the Data Deficient or Near Threatened categories of the IUCN Red List 2010; Species in international trade that are included in Appendix 1 or 2 of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES); and Endemic species, defined as those having their range restricted to the Mount Nimba region. 11

12 4 Literature Review 4.1 History of studies on the fauna of Mont Nimba Detailed scientific investigations into the fauna and flora of Mt Nimba were first initiated during French colonial rule in These studies highlighted the high endemicity present in the region, as well as the high biodiversity resulting from the mosaic of different habitats. To facilitate scientific study a research station, adjacent to the Strict Nature Reserve, La Réserve Naturelle Intégrale du Mont Nimba, at Ziéla at the northern tip of the mountain, was built in 1946 by the Institut Français d Afrique Noire (IFAN). A series of monographic reviews of the fauna and flora appeared in the Memoires IFAN. Scientific highlights of these studies were the description of numerous new species. Lamotte (1983) states that over 500 species were described on specimens collected during the scientific surveys. Whilst the vast majority of these were invertebrates, a number of vertebrates were described (see following sections). Among these were two species of exceptional biological significance; the Nimba otter shrew, which was placed in a new genus (Micropotamogale lamottei), and a new dwarf tree toad (Nectophrynoides occidentalis), that gave birth to live babies (Angel, 1943a). Both of these species were rare and had relict, sister taxa in East Africa. The biological integrity of Mount Nimba was threatened by the discover in December 1955 of rich iron ore deposits on the western face of Liberian Nimba. An international syndicate - LAMCO (Liberian American Swedish Minerals Company) - was formed to exploit these rich reserves and in 1963 mining operations began. Early concern (1958) was expressed over the potential environmental impact and the need to document the existing fauna and flora (Curry- Lindahl, in Coulson and Curry-Lindahl, 1986). LAMCO wished that the scientific investigations at Nimba should fall under the aegis of an international body, and in 1962 it was proposed to the Executive Board of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) that the Nimba Research Committee, responsible for the Nimba Research Station and for administration and supervision of scientific research in Liberian Nimba, should be set up as an arm of IUCN. This was accepted and LAMCO awarded funds of $ over two years to meet these aims. The arrangement was approved by the Liberian Government. The Nimba Research Laboratory opened in 1964 at Grassfield in the southern part of the Liberian Nimba concession, and continued operations until As the Liberian Nimba study area was contiguous in the north with the well-studied Guinea and Ivory Coast parts, it was not expected that much new would be found (Coe and Curry-Lindahl, 1965). Initial studies were mainly ecological and concentrated on vertebrates. It was also found that the savannah and high grassland habitats found on the summit of the Guinea-Ivory Coast Nimba were largely absent in Liberia and replaced by high forest. An early highlight of the Liberian Nimba study was the discovery of a second species of endemic viviparous dwarf toad (Nectophrynoides liberiensis) in the southern section of the mountain range (Xavier, 1978). This species has recently been re-discovered, and is now treated as a subspecies of the Guinean species (Annex 3). Colston and Curry-Lindahl (1986) note that the faunal collections kept at the Nimba Research Station were destroyed or stolen in May 1981 when the laboratory was ransacked. The lost material has not been traced. 4.2 Studies on the Reptiles of Mount Nimba No national checklists, scientific reviews or popular summaries have ever been published for the reptiles of Guinea, Liberia or the Ivory Coast. Snakes have attracted more attention with reviews of the snakes of Cote d Ivoire (Doucet 1963a, b), Ghana (Leeson 1950) and of West Africa (Villiers 1950, 1975, Chippeaux 1999). A modern summary of West African lizards, 12

13 4.2.1 Lizards however, is lacking and most published details on the reptiles of the Nimba region result from the Guinean-Ivorian surveys. Angel et al (1954a) reviewed the lizards collected during the Guinean-Ivorian surveys, detailing 16 species including five geckos, single agamid, chamaeleonid, varanid and lacertid species, and six skinks. A single amphisbaenid completed the known diversity. A number of new species were described based on this material. They included: Lygosoma nimbense Angel A small, semifossorial skink, described from specimens collected in the grasslands around Guinean Nimba where it shelters in grass tussocks (Coe and Curry-Lindahl, 1965). It was subsequently transferred to the genus Panaspis and temporarily confused with Panaspis togoensis (Loveridge 1952) which led to the belief that it had a wider distribution into savannah regions of the Ivory Coast (Barbault, 1974). Bohme (1994) collected additional Guinean material, and revalidated it as a distinct species endemic to the Nimba region. Cnemaspis occidentalis Angel A small rupicolous gecko described from forest habitat on Mt Nimba (Angel 1943b). It was placed in the subgenus Ancylodactylus (Perret, 1986), but a modern molecular re-apprasial of this large genus (which extends in SE Asia) will probably re-assess relationships. C. occidentalis is known from additional isolated montane habitats in Sierra Leone (Mt Loma, m) and Ivory Coast (Mt Tonkoui, 800 m), but again molecular analysis of these isolates may require reassessment of relationships. Amphisbaenia lamottei (Angel 1943). A rare amphisbaenid described on the basis of three specimens collected at Pierre-Ricaud (850 m) and Keoulenta (500 m). It was subsequently synonymized with Cynisca liberiensis (Gans 1987), but is still retained as an endemic race by Ineich (2003). Typical C. l. liberiensis is currently known from a few scattered localities in Liberia, Sierra Leone and inland Guinea. Subsequent studies have shown that Angel s description of Hemidactylus longicephalus was based on confusion with H. muriceus (Ineich, 2003). Angel s (1954) records of the forest banded gecko Hemidactylus fasciata from the Nimba region have not been confirmed by recent records. Leaché. & Fujita (2010) proposed a questionable partition (see Bauer et al. 2011) of the banded gecko, showing significant genetic divergence among populations. No material from Nimba was examined, however, and it is not evident which of their 4 putative species occurs in the region. Hoogmoed (1974) showed that Mabuya blandingii is a synonym of Mabuya affinis (now Trachylepis, although treated by Ineich (2003) as Euprepis; see Bauer 2003 for discussion of generic names) and was also confused by Angel with T. albilabris, which also occurs on Mt Nimba. Subsequently Bohme et al. (2000) revised the water skinks (Cophoscincopus) reviving the species C. simulans and describing a new species, C greeri based on Nimbian material. As a result of these amendments the Nimbian lizard fauna is considered to comprises 16 species, including members of the families Agamidae (1 species), Chamaeleonidae (1), Varanidae (1), Lacertidae (1), Gekkonidae (4) and Scinicidae (8). Ineich (2003) noted that of 331 lizards collected during the Guinean surveys, the commonest species were the water skink, Cophoscincopus durus (110 specimens, 33.2%), the common agama, Agama agama (71, 21.5%), the skinks Trachylepis maculilabris (37, 11.2%) and T. affinis (27, 8.2%), and the gecko Hemidactylus muriceus (15, 4.5%). Most lizards occurred on the lower slopes, with only six species occurring above 1000 m alt. (Chamaelo gracilis, Lygosoma fernandi, Trachylepis affinis, T. maculilabris, T. albilabris, and Cophoscincopus durus), with only the latter occurring on the summit grasslands (1600 m alt.). 13

14 4.2.2 Snakes Angel, et al (1954b) recorded 42 species of snake in the Nimba region, including two typhlopids, one python, 28 colubrids, six atractaspids, three elapids, and 4 viperids. Only one species, Typhlops angeli was new to science and considered endemic to the Nimba region (Guibe, 1952). It was subsequently synonymized with T. manni (Roux-Esteve, 1974), which itself remains known from only one other specimen (Harbel, Liberia). The remaining species were all, to varying degrees, more widely spread in West Africa and the rest of the continent. Lenk et al. (1999) elevated the Upper Guinea race of the Gaboon Viper to specific status, i.e. Bitis rhinoceros. Although some have undergone minor taxonomic revision, e.g. Natrix = Afronatrix, Neusterophis = Natriciteres, Miodon = Polemon, Causus rhombeatus = C. maculatus, etc, the taxonomy of most species remains unchanged. The only major change occurred in tree snakes assigned by Angel et al (1954b) to Dipsadoboa unicolor. Rasmussen (1989, 1993) revised the genus, referring four specimens from Nimba to two other species, including a new species, Dipsadoboa underwoodi, whose range extends from Sierra Leone to Cameroon. Ineich (2003) also added further species, the most significant being the black tree cobra (Pseudohaja nigra) and the Calabar ground snake (Calabaria reinhardti), raising the total number of snakes species from the Nimba region to 52 species, representing six families: Typhlopidae, 2 species; Boidae, 2 species, Atractaspididae, 4 species; Elapidae, 4 species, Viperidae, 5 species; and Colubridae, 35 species. Of 712 snakes collected during the Nimba surveys, the five commonest species were the night adder Causus maculatus (88 specimens, 12.3%), the water snake Afronatrix anoscopus (49, 6.9%), the tree snake Dipsadoboa unicolor (42, 5.9%), the house snake Lamprophis virgatus (42, 5.9%), and the water snake Natriciteres variegata (35, 4.9%). Sixteen species were rare, being represented by less than 5 specimens in the collection. There were 12 venomous species, comprising 23.1% of the snake diversity, but nearly one third (29.5%) of all snakes collected. Most species were restricted to lowland forest, and only six species occurred above 1400 m alt.; Natriciteres variegata, Atractaspis irregularis, Dasypeltis scabra, Bitis rhinoceros, Python sebae and Dipsadoboa unicolor Chelonians and Crocodilians With the exception of squamate reptiles, only a few chelonians occur in the region. These were not discussed in the results of early Nimba reptile surveys (e.g. Angel 1954a,b). Iverson (1992) records the following chelonians in the vicinity of Mt Nimba: Pelusios castaneus; Kinixys belliana nogueyi, K. erosa, and K. homeana. However, few of these species have been confirmed in the region, and Ineich (2003) records only the tortoise Kinixys erosa in the forested parts of the Mt Nimba range, and the water terrapin Pelusios castaneus from savannah habitat on the lower slopes (e.g. Cavally, alt. 550m). Both species were recorded from very few specimens (two and one, respectively), indicating that they were very rare in the region even during the early collecting period ( ). Three crocodilian species, including the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus), the African slender-snouted crocodile (Mecistops cataphractus), and the West African dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis) occur in West Africa. Their presence in the wetlands and rivers associated with drainage from Mt Nimba has not been resolved in early surveys. The Nimbian reptile diversity (70 species) thus includes 16 lizards, including one amphisbaenid, 52 snakes, and two chelonians (Ineich 2003). It is highly skewed, with snakes forming the dominant component of the reptile diversity. The Nimba region has the highest diversity of snakes recorded from a single locality in West Africa (Ineich 2003). Forest species clearly dominate, with only about 10% of the species occurring at the higher elevations. The high snake diversity is probably stimulated by the high habitat diversity and the abundance of prey species (mainly frogs, lizards and small mammals). 14

15 5 Reptile Surveys 5.1 Results of drift fence trapping Of the 22 trap arrays installed, one (no. 13 Tokedah waterfall) was vandalized on day 2 with all the funnel traps stolen. All other traps arrays installed functioned without incident (Fig. 5.1). Trapping resulted in the capture of 140 specimens, the majority (108, 77.1%) of which were amphibians (Table 5.1). The commonest species captured were the small leaf litter arthroleptid Arthroleptis cf. poecilonotus (26, 24.1% of all amphibians captured) and the skink Trachylepis maculilabris (21, 65.6% of all reptiles captured). Other species commonly caught included various puddle frogs Phrynobatrachus sp. (27), especially P. plicatus (9), the toad Amietophryne maculatus (11), and the aquatic frog Silurana tropicalis (10). Fig 5.1 Drift fence trap arrays: 1 (top left), 17 (top right); 21 (bottom left), 20 (bottom right) (see Table 5.1 for details) In total, 18 species of amphibian and 7 reptile species, including only one snake (Thrasops occidentalis), were captured in the trap arrays. Trap arrays collected nearly half (46.1%, 18 of 39) of all amphibian species recorded during the survey, but a smaller proportion (22.5%, 7 of 31) of all reptile species (Fig. 5.2). Moreover, only four species not collected by other techniques were caught in trap arrays (i.e. the frogs Arthroleptis crusculum and Ptychadena oxyrhynchus, and the reptiles Lepidothrys fernandi harlani and Thrasops occidentalis). With few exceptions most species captured in the trap arrays were of terrestrial habits. However, one arboreal snake (Thrasops occidentalis) and a number of aquatic frogs (Silurana tropicalis, Conrau cf alleni) were also collected in funnel traps. The individual trap arrays varied greatly in their efficacy, with capture rates ranging from trap days per specimen. This variation reflected the different suitability of the sampled habitats for reptiles and amphibians, the climate effects on herpetological activity during the survey period, and the varied susceptibilities of different species to capture in trap arrays. 15

16 Trap Array Reptiles Amphibians Total herps Trap days per herp 1 Grassfield Grassfield East Nimba NR East Nimba NR Mt Gangra Adit Mt Gana Adit Lower Gangra Lower Gangra Palm plantation Palm plantation Gangra marsh Gbapa diamond pits Mt Tokedah waterfall Mt Tokedah waterfall Tokedah haul road Tokedah tributary Tokedah stream Tokedah stream Tokedah forest waterfall Lower Nimba tributary Lower Nimba River Lamco rail silos Total (average) Table 5.1 Trap array captures and capture rates Due to the very dry conditions at the end of the survey period small frogs easily became desiccated in the traps, even though they were checked daily. On a number of occasions small frogs were also killed and partially consumed by ants. In general, however, trap arrays resulted in little mortality. No evidence of declines in capture rates over time for individual traps were noted for amphibians, but was weakly evident for lizards presumably because of the greater territoriality of the latter. 16

17 Species Amphibians (46.1%) Reptiles (22.5%) Fig 5.2 Efficacy of trap arrays Blue number of species not caught in trap arrays Maroon - number of species caught in trap arrays CUMULATIVE SPECIES COUNT SPECIES DAYS All herps Amphibians Reptiles Fig 5.3 Cumulative Species count 17

18 5.2 Cumulative species count Graphs of cumulative species counts for amphibians and combined herpetofauna do not reach a plateau phase during the survey period (Fig. 5.3). Although the graph for reptiles shows little increase during the last nine days of the survey this coincided with the onset of the hot dry season when reptile activity was minimal and it is likely that more reptile species occur in the region (e.g. Ineich 2003). 5.3 Reptiles recorded In addition to trapped animals, numerous other specimens were observed during forest walks during the day and night, and during opportunistic searches. In addition, specimens were found dead on tracks and roads in the region, and also brought in by local villagers. Most snakes, but few lizards were obtained in this manner. Local people were familiar with tortoises, terrapins and crocodiles, but none were caught during the survey. During the short field survey 31 species were recorded, including 12 lizards and 19 snakes (see Table 5.1). A number of important range extensions were made during the survey, including: The first records for Liberia of the Western Cave gecko (Cnemaspis occidentalis); The first records of the commensal Tropical House gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia) from the Mt Nimba region, introduced into the Yekapa and Grassfields region; Recognition that the common red-headed agama present in the region is not Agama agama, but probably referable to A. cf. sylvanus; The first records for Liberia of Greer s Water Skink (Cophoscincopus greeri); The first records for Liberian Nimba of the White-lipped Skink (Trachylepis albilabris); The first records for Liberian Nimba of Harlan s Fire Skink (Lepidothrys fernandi harlani); The first records for Liberian Nimba of the White-lipped Snake (Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia); The first records for Liberian Nimba of the Savannah File Snake (Gonionotophis crossi); The first records for Liberian Nimba of the Keeled Green Snake (Hapsiophrys smaragdina) and Lined Green Snake (H. lineatus); The fourth record of the Western Black Tree Snake (Thrasops occidentalis) from Liberian Nimba; The first record for Liberian Nimba of the Beautiful Tree Snake (Ramnophis aethiopissa); The second record for Liberian Nimba of the Black Tree Cobra (Pseudohaje nigra); 18

19 5.4 Comments on reptiles recorded Geckos Three species of gecko were recorded in the region (Fig 5.4), including the first records of the Tropical House geckos, Hemidactylus mabouia. This wide-ranging, commensal and highlyvisible gecko has not previously been reported from Yekapa or the Nimba region (Ineich 2003), even though it is one of the commonest lizards in the town. The gecko was not recorded from pristine habitats, and out of the confines of Yekepa was only found on ruined buildings in the Grassfield region. It is probable that the species has been introduced into the region in association with mining activity, and its presence at Grassfields indicates that this introduction may not be very recent. The taxonomic status of house geckos for the H. mabouia complex is problematic (Vences et al. 2004, Carranza & Arnold 2006) and required further clarification. The natural and anthropogenic translocation of individuals, both intra-african and been Africa and the New World, mean that the origin of the introduced Nimba population requires further study. Western Cave Gecko (Cnemaspis occidentalis) Fig 5.4 Geckos of the Liberian Nimba region Forest Gecko (Hemidactylus murecius) The forest tropical gecko (Hemidactylus murecius) was collected twice in forested habitats, both times active during the day in shaded vegetation (10h00 and 16h30). On the basis of scalation both specimens are referable to H. murecius. With the H. murecius complex and number of additional cryptic species have been recognized. Henle & Bohme (2003) described a new species, H. pseudomurecius, from Petite Île, Parc National d'azagny, southern Cote d Ivoire, and H. ansorgi.from Tai NP in western Cote d Ivoire. Both may also be present in the Nimba forest. The rock-living Nimba Cave gecko Cnemaspis occidentalis is a very rare gecko recorded only twice (1945, 1967) since its description in 1943 (Angel 1943b), and known from only eight specimens (Perret 1986, Ineich 2003). Although initially considered endemic to Guinean and Ivorian Nimba, specimens from Mont Tonkoui (Cote d Ivoire) and Mont Loma (Sierra Leone) have been referred to this species (Perret 1986). Molecular studies are required to confirm this assignment and thus the conservation status of the Nimba population. During this survey and that described in Annex 4 the species was only collected from one old mine shaft (850m asl) on the upper slopes of Mt Gangra. It was also observed at another shaft (822m asl ) on the same mountain. These are the first records for Liberia and, with the exception of the Tonkoui and Loma records (Perret 1986), the first away from the main Nimba range. The species may occur on the Liberian Nimba range on rock faces associated with the abandoned LAMCO mine works. 19

20 5.4.2 Agamas Agamid lizards are among the commonest and most conspicuous lizards in the Nimba region. The common red-headed agama (Fig. 5.5), usually referred to Agama agama (Angel et al. 1954a, Ineich 2003, Bangoua et al. 2009, Annex 4), is common in Yekepa town, adjacent towns (e.g. Camp Four, Gbala, etc) but also in disturbed habitats throughout the region, including road-side rock faces on Mt Gangra, and the old LAMCO mine workings including Blue Lake and cellphone towers (to an altitude of 1367 m asl.) Although the common redheaded agama from the Nimbian region has been referred to the common West African species Agama agama (Angel et al. 1954a, Ineich 2003), detailed studies on West African agamas has shown significant morphological and genetic divergence (Wagner et al. 2009b, c; 2010). They may be referable to A. sylvanus (P. Wagner, pers. comm.). A very large breeding male agama observed at the deserted swimming pool facility on the outskirts of Yekapa had a paler body and black tail tip. It may be referable to an introduced individual or colony of Agama agama. 20

21 Table 5.1 Reptiles of the Mt Nimba region, Liberia NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME AM Surveys Literature Status REPTILIA ORDER: CROCODYLIA FAMILY: CROCODYLIDAE Dwarf crocodile Osetolaemus tetraspis P * B IUCN VU Cites 1 Slender-snouted crocodile Mecistops cataphractus P IUCN DD Cites 1 ORDER: CHELONIA FAMILY: TESTUDINIDAE Forest Hinged-back tortoise Kinixys erosa P B, I - G IUCN DD Cites 11 FAMILY: PELOMEDUSIDAE Hinged terrapin Pelusios castaneus (capullata?) P LIZARDS FAMILY: GEKKONIDAE Tropical House Gecko Hemidactylus mabouia W Forest Gecko Hemidactylus murecius W, P Hemidactylus angulatus I G I - G I - G, C, L House Gecko Hemidactylus sp. P Cave Gecko Cnemaspis occidentalis W, P I G, C Forest Dwarf Day Gecko FAMILY: VARANIDAE Lycgodactylus conraui Water monitor Varanus ornatus W FAMILY: CHAMAELEONIDAE Gracile Chameleon FAMILY: AGAMIDAE Chamaeleo gracilis Common Agama Agama agama W (?) Forest Agama Agama sylvanus W FAMILY: LACERTIDAE Blue-tailed tree lizard Holaspis guentheri B I G I G, L I L I G First record Liberia FAMILY: SCINCIDAE Harlan s Hire Skink Lepidothrys fernandi harlani W I G, C First record Liberian Nimba Greer s Water Skink Cophoscincopus greeri W I G First record Liberia IUCN? Water Skink Cophoscincopus durus W, P! G, L Water Skink Cophoscincopus simulans W, P I G, L Togo Snake-eyed skink Panaspis togoensis B Nimba Snake-eyed skink Panaspis nimbense I G, C IUCN? Speckle-lipped Skink Trachylepis maculilabris W, P I G, L Forest Skink Trachylepis affinis P B, I G First record Liberian Nimba White-lipped Skink Trachylepis albilabris W, P I G First record Liberian Nimba Five-striped Skink Trachylepis quinquetaeniata B FAMILY: AMPHISBAENIDAE Lamotte s Worm Lizard Cynisca liberiensis lamottei I G P = Penner 2011 (Annex 4); W = Present survey; B = Bangoura 2009, I = Ineich 2003 (G Guinea, C Cote d Ivoire, L Liberia) 21

22 Table 5.1 Reptiles of the Mount Nimba region, Liberia (cont.) NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME AM Surveys Literature Status SUBORDER: SERPENTES FAMILY: TYPHLOPIDAE Spotted Blind Snake Afrotyphlops punctatus P I G, L Mann s Blind Snake Afrotyphlops manni I - G Known only from type IUCN DD? FAMILY: PYTHONIDAE African Rock Python Python sebae P Ground Python FAMILY: ATRACTASPIDIDAE Calabaria reinhardti Burrowing asp Atractaspis irregularis W, P Burrowing snake Lined Centipede Easter Giant Centipede eater Black Centipede Eater Polemon acanthinus Aparallactus lineatus Aparallactus modestus Aparallactus niger I G, L I? I G, L B I G, L I - G I - G Cites 11 FAMILY: LAMPROPHIDAE Black House Snake Lamprophis fuliginosus W, P I - G Lined House Snake Lamprophis lineatus I G, L Olive House Snake Lamprophis olivaceus I G, L Forest House Snake Lamprophis virgatus I G, L Red and Black-lined Snake Bothrophthalmus lineatus I G, L Wolf Snake Lycophidion irroratum I G, L Black-spotted Wolf Snake Lycophidion nigromaculatum I G, L Wolf Snake Lycophidion semicinctum I - G Forest File Snake Gonionotophis poensis W, P I G, L File snake Gonionotophis guirali I G, L Small-eyed File Snake Gonionotophis stenophthalmus I - G Savannah File Snake Gonionotophis crossi W, P 1st record Liberian Nimba Slender File Snake Gonionotophis klingi P I G, L Forest Wolf Snake Chamaelycus fasciatus I G, L Slender Night Snake Hormonotus modestus I G, L FAMILY: PSAMMOPHIIDAE Sand Snake Psammophis phillipsi W, P! G, L FAMILY: COLUBRIDAE Thollon s water Snake Grayia smithii W, P I G, L White-lipped Snake Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia W, P? 1st record Liberian Nimba Smooth-scaled Herald Snake Crotaphopeltis hippocrepis??? 1st record Liberian Nimba Common Egg-eater Dasypeltis scabra I G, L Forest Egg-eater Dasypeltis fasciata I - G Blanding s Tree Snake Boiga blandingii I G, L Powdery Tree Snake Boiga pulverulenta P I G, L Weiler s Cat Snake Dipsadoboa weileri I - G Underwood s Cat Snake Dipsadoboa underwoodi P I - G Plain Cat Snake Dipsadoboa unicolor P I - G, C, L 22

23 Table 5.1 Reptiles of the Mt Nimba region, Liberia (cont.) NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME AM Surveys Literature Status Green Cat Snake Dipsadoboa brevirostris P I - G (= D. viridis) Boomslang Dispholidus typus I - G, L Forest Vine Snake Thelotornis kirtlandii W, P B, I - G, L Blask Tree Snake Thrasops occidentalis W I - G, L 4 th record Liberian Nimba Beautiful Tree Snake Rhamphiophis aethiopissa W 1st record Liberian Nimba Keeled Green Snake Philothamnus carinatus I - G, L Slender green Snake Philothamnus heterodermus W! - G, L Green snake Philothamnus irregularis W I G, L Green Keeled Snake Hapsidophrys smaragdina W, P 1st record Liberian Nimba Striped Keeled Snake Hapsidophrys lineatus P I - G 1st record Liberian Nimba Crowned snake Meizodon regularis I - G, L FAMILY: NATRICITIDAE Variegated Marsh Snake Natriciteres variegata W, P African Water Snake Afronatrix anoscopus W, P I - G, C, L I - G, C, L FAMILY: ELAPIDAE Black Tree Cobra Pseudohaje nigra W B, I - L 2nd record Liberian Nimba Forest cobra Naja melanoleuca P I G, L Spitting cobra Naja nigricollis P I - G Western Green Mamba Dendroaspis viridis P I G, L FAMILY: VIPERIDAE Green bush viper Atheris chlorechis W, P I - G, C, L Rhinoceros Viper (Riverjack) Bitis nasicornis W, P I G, L Western Gaboon Viper Bitis rhinoceros W, P I G, L Spotted night adder Causus maculates P B, I - G, L Lichtenstein s night adder Causus lichtensteinii I G, L TOTAL

24 5.4.3 Skinks Fig. 5.5 Red-headed Agama (Agama cf. sylvanus) breeding male Skinks form the dominant family of lizards in the Nimba region with at least nine species present, and six recorded during this survey (Fig. 5.6). The commonest species, the Specklelipped Skink (Trachylepis maculilabris) was common in primary and secondary forest habitats. It was recorded foraging in mine shafts on Mt Gangra. Speckle-lipped Skink (Trachylepis maculilabris) White-lipped Skink (Trachylepis albilabris) Harlan s Fire Skink (Lepidothrys fernandi harlani) Common Water Skink (Cophoscincopus simulans) 24

25 Hard Water Skink (Cophoscincopus durus) Greer s Water Skink (Cophoscincopus greeri) Fig 5.6 Skinks of the Liberian Nimba region Snakes Less common was the White-lipped Skink (Trachylepis albolabris) which was only collected in the Grassfields region. Neither Hoogmoed (1974) nor Ineich (2003) records specimens from Liberian Nimba, although Penner (2011) records specimens. During the survey the first collections of Greer s Water Skink (Cophoscincopus greeri) and Harlan s Fire Skink (Lepidothrys fernandi harlani) were made for Liberia and Liberian Nimba, respectively. The latter, previously known as Riopa fernandi, has recently been revised (Wagner et al 2009a) with specimens from the Upper Guinea region referred to a revived subspecies (harlani). The Mount Nimba region is believed to have the highest diversity of snakes in Africa (Ineich 2003). Despite this, relatively few snakes were caught during the current survey. Others were collected during an earlier survey (Annex 4) and they are discussed together here Scolecophidians Two primitive blind snakes have been recorded from the Nimba region, and both have confused taxonomic histories (for discussion of Typhlops manni see below). The commonest species was usually referred to Typhlops punctatus in early literature, but Roux-Esteve (1974) revived T. p. liberiensis for the western populations, which was followed by Ineich (2003) for Nimba populations. However, Broadley & Wallach (2009) have placed revived liberiensis as a full species from forest habitats, restricting punctatus for savannah populations. Both species have been referred to a new genus Afrotyphlops (Broadley & Wallach 2009). The record of Annex 4 was from Yekepa, are region previously forested. Whether it should be referred to A. liberiensis, or whether it represents recent colonization of the area by a savannah species (see comments below for Gonionotophis crossi) remains unresolved, pending further material Water snakes (Afronatrix and Grayia) These two fully aquatic snakes belong to two different families, Afronatrix belonging to the Natricidae and Grayia to a new colubrid subfamily, Grayinae (Fig. 5.7). Both are common in water courses throughout the area, and both regularly caught by local villagers in traps set for fish and crabs. Both species are readily eaten when captured. 25

26 Western Water Snake (Afronatrix anascopus) Smith s Water Snake (Grayia smithii) Swamp Snake (Natriciteres variegata) Savannah File Snake (Gonionotophis crossi) Fig 5.7 Common Snakes of the Liberian Nimba region Savannah File Snake (Gonionotophis crossi) Specimens of this large file snake (Fig. 5.7) were collected during both the present survey and that of Annex 4 in secondary cleared areas in the Yekapa region. The species was not recorded from the Nimba region by Ineich (2003), and may represent recent invasion of the region by a savannah species. It was previously placed in the genus Mehelya (see Kelly et al 2011) White-lipped Snake (Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia) No specimens of this species, or the closely-related C. hippocrepis, were previously recorded from the Nimba region (Angel 1958, Ineich 2003), although Rasmussen et al. (2000) noted material for the latter from Guinea adjacent to Mt Nimba. Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia was collected during this (Fig. 5.8) and the Annex 4 survey, and yet there have been very few other records from Liberia (e.g. Barbour & Loveridge 1930). It is not obvious whether the species has been previously overlooked in the Nimba region, or represents recent colonization of the Yekepa region Keeled Green Snakes (Hapsidophrys) Both species of keeled green snakes, Hapsidophrys lineatus and H. smaragdina (Fig. 5.8) were collected during recent surveys in the Nimba region (this survey and Annex 4). Although there have been a few records of both species within Liberia (e.g. Barbour & Loveridge 1930, Loveridge 1941, Chippeaux 1999), neither has previously been recorded from the Nimba region (Ineich 2003). 26

27 White-lipped Cat Snake (Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia) Keeled Green Snake (Hapsidophrys smaragdina) Fig 5.8 New Snake records for the Liberian Nimba region Large Tree Snake A single adult specimen of the Western Black Tree Snake (Thrasops occidentalis, Fig. 5.9) was collected in a funnel trap on the edge of riverine forest at Grassfields. This large arboreal snake was not recorded during the other surveys (Bangoua et al. unpubl, Annex 4) and is only the fourth recorded specimen from Liberian Nimba (Ineich 2003). A dead specimen of the Splendid Dagger-tooth Snake (Rhamnophis aethiopissa) was collected at Tokedah Mine. This is the first record of the species from the Liberian Nimba region. Fig. 5.9 Western Black Tree Snake (Thrasops occidentalis) Forest Twig Snake (Thelotornis kirtlandi) 27

28 Black Spitting Cobra(Naja nigricollis) Western Forest Cobra (Naja melanoleuca) J Penner Black Tree Cobra (Pseudohaje nigra) Green Tree Viper (Atheris chlorechis) Rhinoseros Viper (Bitis nasicornis) Western Gaboon Viper (Bitis rhinoseros) Fig 5.10 Dangerous Snakes of the Mount Nimba region 5.5 Reptiles unrecorded No crocodiles, tortoises or terrapins were observed during the survey. Discussion with local hunters and villagers indicated that crocodiles were still present in the more distant swamps, but that they were now very rare. It is probable that these were the dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis), as the larger, fish-eating Slender-snouted crocodile (Mecistops cataphractus) is large and thus more visible, more susceptible to fish nets, and also unlikely to find suitable food resources not already heavily utilized by local people. Annex 4 discusses in fuller detail crocodilian sightings in the region, including captive specimens. Tortoises (Kinixys 28

29 erosa) and terrapins (Pelusios sp.) were also reported by local villagers to now be very rare in the region. All of these reptiles are exploited for food, and none were observed during the survey. Requests for local hunters and villagers to bring any specimens found or held captive, or even old discarded shells from previous meals, were unsuccessful. Lawson (2000) has documented the high incidence of exploitation of hinged tortoises (Kinixys) for food in Cameroon Day Gecko (Lygodactylus conraui) There are problematic records of this forest day gecko from Tokedah and ENNR (Bangoura et al unpubl). The species has not been recorded previously from Mt Nimba (Ineich 2003). The only Liberian record is the early description of Lygodactylus strongi from Du River, coastal Liberia (Barbour & Loveridge 1927). This species is now included as a synonym of L. conraui, but it remains the only record for the country (Reptile Datebase, 20 March 2011; Bauer et al 2006). Its presence in the Liberian Nimba region requires confirmation, as the nearest record is in adjacent Côte d Ivoire (e.g. Taï National Park, & Mahsberg 2000). The Nimba Snake-eyed Skink (Panaspis nimbense) was not observed during either the current survey or that of Annex 4. The record of P. togoensis from ENNR (Bangoua et al. 2009) is probably based on confused taxonomy, and if observed in montane grassland on Mt Alpha (the habitat is not stated) then it was probably P. nimbense Rainbow Skink The Rainbow skink Mabuya (= Trachylepis) quinquetaeniata was also recorded from ENNR by Bangoura et al unpubl. This is a problematic record as this is an East African species with a few records from savannah habitats in the Sahel (Broadley & Bauer 1999). It has not been previously recorded from Liberia or the Mt Nimba region (Ineich 2003) and this record would be treated with caution pending the collection of validating voucher material Mann s Blind Snake (Afrotyphlops manni) The status of this very rare blind snake remains problematic. Roux-Esteve (1974) referred Angel s Blind Snake (Typhlops angeli), described from a single specimen from Guinean Nimba (Nzo), to Typhlops manni, also known from a single specimen from Harbel, Liberia. No other material is available to confirm the species presence in the Nimba region, and its specific status with respect to T. manni. Broadley & Wallach (2009) transferred manni to the new genus Afrotyphlops Egg-eating Snakes (Dasypeltis) Ineich (2003) recorded two species of Dasypeltis from Nimba, including D. scabra and D. fasciata. Trappe & Mané (2006) described three new subspecies from Sahel and savannah habitats in West Africa. Although D. fasciata is a forest form and unlikely to be confused with any other species, it is possible that some records of D scabra from Grassfields and other open habitats in Liberian Nimba region may be referable to the new species D confuse (Trape & Mané 2006), in which case they would be the first records for Liberia. An unusual and unexplained feature of the Upper Guinea forests is the absence of forest chameleons, which have speciated extensively in forest isolates elsewhere in Africa (e.g. Cameroon, Tanzania and South Africa). 29

30 5.6 Threatened and Endemic Reptiles The only reptile from the Mt Nimba region included in any threatened category of the Red List (IUCN 2010) is the Dwarf Crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis) which is considered Vulnerable. The threatened status of the Sharp-snouted Crocodile (Mecistops cataphractus) is considered globally Data Deficient. However, at a national level the Liberian population may qualify for either Vulnerable or Endangered status due to hunting pressures and habitat loss. Both crocodile species are extensively exploited in the skin and meat trade and therefore are also listed on CITES Appendix 1. A number of other species sensitive to over-exploitation in the skin and pet trade, eg. Python sebae, Varanus ornatus (see Bohme & Ziegler 1997), Chamaeleo gracilis, and the hinged tortoise Kinixys erosa, are included on CITES Appendix II (within generic or familial listings). Two lizard species, Panaspis nimbense and Cnemaspis occidentalis, were described from Mt Nimba. The latter is no longer considered endemic to Mt Nimba (Perret 1986), with additional isolated populations in Cote d Ivoire (Mt Tonkoui) and Sierra Leone (Mt Loma). Genetic studies may well confirm that these montane isolates represent a series of cryptic species. The Nimba populations should therefore be treated conservatively as endemic, and of potential conservation concern. Similarly, the amphisbaenian, Cynisca liberiensis lamottei, is endemic to Guinean Nimba, with the type locality at Pierré Richaud. With modern phylogenetic species concepts this taxon would probably be considered of specific status and endemic to Guinean Nimba. In addition, the Nimba blind snake, the type of T. angeli (= T. manni), is only one of two specimens referred to this species, and the one with the most detailed locality (Nzo, alt. 500m). It is currently best assessed as Data Deficient, but discovery of additional material in the Nimba region could lead to its inclusion in the IUCN Red List. 5.7 Regional importance of the reptile diversity The Mt Nimba range has long been recognized as an important site for regional biodiversity, which led to the proclamation of the highest parts of the range as a World Heritage site. In West Africa it contains the highest diversity of amphibian (Guibé and Lamotte 1958a-c, 1963) and snake species (Ineich 2003). Although the lizard fauna is relatively depauperate relative to that of montane areas in East and South Africa, and even that of Cameroon in West Africa, it includes the type localities of a number of taxa, i.e. Panaspis nimbense, Cnemaspis occidentalis and Cynisca liberiensis lamotte, that modern phylogenetic studies may reaffirm their endemic status. Due to human population growth and expansion the Upper Guinea forest is increasingly fragmented, and the forest reserves on the upper slopes of the Nimba range form important refugia for forest specialists. 30

31 6 SENSITIVE HABITATS Ineich (2003) noted that the majority of reptiles from the Nimba region are forest specialists. He recorded only six lizard species above 1000 m alt. (Chamaeleo gracilis, Lepidothrys fernandi, Trachylepis affinis, T. maculilabris, T. albilabris, and Cophoscincopus durus), and only six snake species above 1400m alt. (Natriciteres variegata, Atractaspis irregularis, Dasypeltis scabra, Bitis rhinoceros, Python sebae and Dipsadoboa unicolor). The only reptile recorded from the summit grasslands (which are naturally absent from Liberian Nimba) was the small skink Panaspis nimbense, although the agama A. sylvanus was also recorded at 1367m alt. in disturbed habitat during this survey. Grassland habitats surrounding Yekepa, and in the vicinity of the old airstrip in the Grassfield area and the old LAMCO hydroelectric ponds, contain a number of savannah species. Among snakes these include the Savannah File Snake (Gonionotophis crossi), the White-lipped Snake (Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia) and the Grass Snake (Psammophis philippsi), and among lizards include the chameleon (Chamaeleo gracilis) and the gecko Hemidactylus angularis. Whether these species occurred in natural grassland pockets, or have become established in secondary clearings in association with the long history of human settlement is unknown. Commensal species that have become established in association with human developments include the Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia) and possibly the Red-headed Agama (Agama agama) that may also be present. There are few natural rock outcrops in the region. The Cave gecko Cnemaspis occidentalis was now found only in association with mine shafts on the forest slopes of Mt Gangra. No natural rock outcrops on the mountain were observed. Whether this species naturally occurred on the mountain or whether it was introduced from Mt Nimba in association with mining activities is unknown. A number of reptiles in the region are aquatic or semi aquatic, including the water monitor (Varanus ornatus), the water skinks (Cophoscincopus durus, C. simulans and C. greeri), and the snakes Grayia smithii and Afronatrix anoscopus. All are dependent on the maintenance of water quality and normal water flows. 31

32 7 IMPACTS Numerous impacts affecting the surviving fauna in the proposed mine areas may arise from the construction and operational phases of the proposed mining development, as well as during decommissioning. These are summarised below. As full details of the proposed location extent and nature of all infrastructure remain unknown, only the general aspects of impacts are discussed below. 7.1 Loss and fragmentation of sensitive habitats The main project action resulting in these impacts is the clearing and subsequent loss of the vegetation in the mining and surrounding areas, the destruction of rock outcrops, the development of road linkages and related infrastructure, including human habitations, workshops, dams, waste dumps, etc. The development and operation of the mine will lead to human settlement and development in the area, resulting in additional secondary habitat loss and fragmentation due to both urban development and subsistence agriculture. Compounding this will be habitat loss and fragmentation resulting from transport and service (e.g. power corridors) linkages. These secondary and cumulative impacts will probably exceed the habitat loss directly associated with the mine footprint. In most cases the loss of habitat will be permanent during the life of the mine, and rehabilitation on closure will only partially restore these habitats in the medium term. Some habitats, e.g. rock outcrops, will not be practical to restore. This will cause a direct loss of biodiversity in all faunal groups, via associated mortality, loss of feeding sites and refugia, etc. Different habitats shelter different faunas, and some sites although very localised and small relative to the total area of the mine, harbour specialized faunas Mitigation measures: Avoid clearing or damaging forest and wetland habitat where possible; Isolated islands of forest habitat <100ha in extent should be avoided as they will not serve as meaningful refugia for large reptiles. Transport linkages should not bisect large forest blocks. They will result in increased mortalities as animals move between adjacent habitat blocks decreasing their efficacy as meaningful refugia. Transport and service linkages crossing wetlands and major drainage lines must be avoided, and those crossing floodplains require detailed planning and for each a method statement in compliance with EMP requirements must be prepared. Where a river crossing is required, a method statement in compliance with EMP requirements must be prepared. Avoid indirect effects of run-off erosion and sedimentation from roads and mining operations on wetlands and drainage lines. Procedures to comply with this must be detailed in the EMP. The development of large water impoundments with fluctuating water levels will disrupt faunal movements along riparian corridors as a forest fringe will not develop. 32

33 Water quality and levels in wetlands and drainage lines must be monitored to ensure their functioning in faunal connectivity. Planning of project developments should be undertaken in association with local and regional social development to ensure that forest habitat refugia are protected from secondary impacts such as transport and power linkages. A biodiversity/habitat offset programme should be established in association with regional and national conservation bodies. This should ensure that accumulative impacts from other developments in the area are compiled, and incorporated into an integrated regional conservation management plan. 7.2 Loss of Reptile Diversity The local perception is that all snakes are dangerous and therefore must be killed. Snakebite, however, is not a common risk in the area and therefore the perceived threat is emotional and the fear of snakes cultural. Much of the killing of large snakes is now driven by the desire for food, and most large snakes encountered are killed if found. Large vipers, pythons and water snakes (Grayia) are particularly targeted. Most lizards are too small and are therefore not killed and remain common around houses and along rivers. Monitor lizards, however, are readily killed, mainly for food, but also for their skin and fat which is used in local herbal medicine treatments. The greatest diversity of reptiles in the area includes harmless snakes, which are predators on diverse food resources, but particularly amphibians and rodents. Increased human numbers associated with the development of the mine will lead to increased mortality of snakes from road mortalities and human attitudes. Although large tracts of relatively intact forest habitat occur in the region, including nominally protected reserves (e.g. ENNR) these do not offer adequate protection to large reptiles and amphibians targeted as food resources. Sightings of chelonians and crocodilians were either absent or very rare, and local villagers reported hunting them for food. Lawson (2000) documented the extent of exploitation of the forest tortoises Kinixys erosa and K. homeana in Cameroon, and the dwarf crocodile Osteolaemus tetraspis is similarly threatened by overexploitation throughout West Africa (Akani et al. 1998). Hunting pressure on reptiles in the Nimba region is not new. Nearly 40 years ago Coe (1975) noted In our experience the Mano (an indigenous people of the region) would eat all but the very smallest vertebrate. Hunting pressure on the fauna does not end as people s socio-economic standing uplifts as hunting becomes commercial, rather than for individual subsistence consumption. A ready market for bushmeat in all its forms exists due to increased accessibility of large tracts of land brought about by the construction of tracks for logging and mining operations. Lindsella et al. (2011) assessed whether human conflicts had benefited wildlife by depopulating Gola Forest, Sierra Leone, during the protracted civil war. The noted that to some extent it had, but concluded that peacetime pressures from the bushmeat trade, clearance for agriculture, logging and mining were likely to be far greater for Gola than the pressures from the civil war. Similar responses are likely for the Liberian Nimba region Mitigation measures: Prohibit exploitation of sensitive reptiles, e.g. crocodiles, monitor lizards, chameleons and chelonians (tortoises and terrapins). Prohibit sale of reptile bushmeat in facilities falling under control of the mine organisation. Curtail un-necessary night driving on mine roads 33

34 Educate mine staff and local villagers about the importance of snakes in controlling agricultural pests. 7.3 Loss of Reptile species of special concern A number of endemic and threatened reptiles occur in the region. The taxonomic status of some populations remains problematic, e.g. those of the Cave Gecko (Cnemaspis occidentalis) and the burrowing snake (Afrotyphlops manni). The two crocodilian species (Mecistops cataphractus and Osteolaemus tetraspis) are recorded from the general region (Kofron 1992, Eaton 2010, Hutton & Lainez 2010, Shirley 2010), but the presence of only the former has been confirmed in the Liberian Nimba region (Penner 2011). Both are currently listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List These species and four other reptiles (Chamaeleo gracilis, Varanus ornatus, Python sebae and Kinixys erosa) are include in CITES appendices (II) and their international trade is monitored or regulated Mitigation measures: Support integrity and protection of proclaimed reserves and sensitive habitats. Prohibit exploitation of sensitive reptiles, particularly crocodiles, monitor lizards, chameleons and terrapins. Educate mine staff and local villagers about the necessity of protecting snakes and other reptiles. 7.4 Disruption to faunal movements Construction and operation of the mine will result in regions of high disturbance, including noise and light pollution, as well as generate linear developments (e.g. roads, rail links, possibly conveyor linkages and power corridors) that will disrupt faunal movements, resulting in potential higher mortality and disruptions of migratory patterns. Apart from direct mortality associated with habitat loss and reduction of habitat quality, habitat fragmentation can also lead to secondary effects resulting from disruption of animal movements. This can rapidly impact small, non-flying animals and disruption of gene flow can lead to loss of genotypic fitness and increased extinction potential. Habitat fragmentation may require species to make long movements between patches of suitable habitat in search of mates, breeding sites, or food. At such times they may suffer increased mortality, either directly by road vehicles, or from their natural predators due to unnatural exposure. Impacts on animal movements will be greatest in regions with high habitat fragmentation, or where linear developments transect migratory or foraging paths. Block and linear developments associated with mining, such as rail and road links, may disrupt the movement of species within their normal home ranges, or the seasonal movements of migratory species. Reptiles and amphibians do not undertake long distance migrations, but both groups may undertake short seasonal movements. Many snakes and large monitor lizards undertake movements between winter hibernation sites and their summer foraging areas. Amphibians are known to experience the highest levels of mortalities associated with the presence of roads among vertebrates. This is mainly attributed to en masse seasonal migrations to and from their breeding sites. Some amphibians, particularly toads, are explosive breeders, and move en masse to the breeding ponds. At such times they may suffer heavy casualties whilst crossing roads. 34

35 7.4.1 Mitigation measures: Development of all road linkages should employ, where possible, existing tracks and roads. Fences around the concession area that curtail faunal movements should be avoided. Security fences around the mine complex should, where possible, be permeable to small animals. Many tracks/roads associated with the development will continue in use after mine closure and thus result in residual impact. 7.5 Invasion of alien species Linear developments and habitat fragmentation associated with mining create suitable conditions for the invasion of alien species. Alien fauna invasion may occur during all phases (construction, operational, and de-commissioning/closure) but will be most significant during the operational phase when environmental impacts are at the highest, and when movement by people and traffic to and from the area are at their peak. Two commensal reptiles, the Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia) and Red-headed Agama (Agama agama) are already resident in large parts of West Africa, and breeding colonies of the former are already established at Yekapa and Grassfields Mitigation measures: The presence of alien species, particularly problem birds such as Indian Myna and House Crow, which can seriously predate small reptiles, are not currently known from the region, but are known to have become serious pests in other parts of Africa. Their presence should be monitored. Alien species should not be allowed to become established and should be eradicated as soon as they appear. Domestic pets such as cats and dogs can cause significant loss of local fauna and their presence should be monitored and feral dogs and cats should be controlled and excluded from protected areas (e.g. ENNR). 7.6 Increased fire risk Fire in many ecosystems, particularly savannah and grassland, is a natural phenomenon and prevents thicket development. Fire in forest habitats is naturally infrequent. The use of unnatural fires to improve grazing for livestock is commonly practised by local communities, and is common in the Nimba region even in protected areas. Fires often result in habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and habitat degradation, but it may also have more subtle effects. In African savannas, intentional burning has been practised for at least years. Maninduced fires may be associated with slash-and-burn agriculture, particularly where crops are grown in an ash garden made from the burning a pile of plant material. In addition to agriculture, fire is used for many other purposes. Livestock owners burn areas to provide a green flush for their livestock, to control pests, such as ticks (Acarina) and tsetse flies (Glossina spp., Diptera). People use fire to clear areas alongside paths and around settlements; hunters initiate fires to drive animals or to attract them later to the re-growing grass on burnt areas; and honey collectors use fire to displace bee swarms. Many fires also originate accidentally from people preparing land for cultivation, collecting honey or making charcoal. 35

36 Fires are fuelled largely by grass, and fire intensity therefore depends much on the recent grass production. Fires tend to be more frequent and intense in areas where canopy cover is lower, mean annual rainfall is higher and grazing intensity is lower. The effects of fire depend on its intensity. Fire intensity depends on the amount of fuel, physical and chemical properties of the fuel, meteorological conditions, soil moisture and topography. Soil acts as an effective insulator. During a fire, soil temperatures decrease very rapidly with increasing depth. Due to this, soil organisms and subterranean parts of plants can survive surface fires. However, the decrease in food sources from frequent fire affects soil invertebrates Mitigation measures: Storage of highly flammable material (e.g. fuel) on site should be in adequately protected, secure sites, with facilities for fire fighting available. Vegetation surrounding the mine complex should be controlled to reduce the risk of fire spread. All litter, refuse, etc., should be regularly removed from the mine site. The cultural practise of burning grassland and seasonal wetlands every dry season should be discouraged and subsistence farmers educated about the long-term effects of unnatural fire regimes. 7.7 Pollution Pollution can occur in various forms, including chemical, light and noise pollution. The importation of fuels and associated industrial chemicals will increase the risk of chemical pollution. Moreover, increased road traffic and human settlement will also result in increased risk of chemical pollution in the region. Construction and operation of the mine facility will result in increased levels of both noise and light pollution that can be expected to have potentially negative and positive impacts of various faunal groups Chemical pollution This is the accidental release of alien toxic chemicals, e.g. petroleum, rather than the remobilization of natural pollutants (e.g. radioactive elements associated with mining). Mining can lead to chemical contamination of the mine site and surrounding areas directly by the exposure of geologically labile chemicals during opencast mining, or secondarily via spillage, pollution, etc., of introduced chemicals. In the latter, heavy vehicle traffic associated with mining may increase local pollution from exhaust fumes, oil spillage, and accumulation of rubber compounds from tyre wear. These pollutants can cause localised impacts. Other secondary affects can also occur from the application of herbicides used to control plant growth along road verges or around the mine compound. The accumulation of herbicides and their residues in adjacent wetlands can lead to developmental abnormalities in tadpoles and metamorphosing frogs. Storage of chemicals (explosives, fuel, etc) on the mine site increases the risk of chemical spillage The importation of fuels and associated industrial chemicals will increase the risk of chemical pollution. Moreover, increased road traffic and human settlement will both result in increased risk of chemical pollution in the region. Escape of contaminated water from the mine site into adjacent drainage lines. Chemical pollution risk may occur during all phases (construction, operational, and de-commissioning/closure) but will be lowest during the construction phase, will be most significant during the operational phase, when environmental impacts and traffic 36

37 movement are highest, and possibly during the de-commissioning/closure phase when the danger of chemical contamination of water sources increases Mitigation measures for Chemical Pollution: Prevention of chemical pollution requires careful storage and use of such material. Chemical stores (including fuel, insecticides, etc) should be in locked stores. Access to such stores to be controlled at all time. Inventories of stored chemicals should be maintained, and their use regulated. All cautions/recommendations with respect to storage and use of hazardous chemicals should be implemented. Seepage of contaminated water into drainage lines should be monitored regularly. All chemical materials used during mine operations will be removed on closure. However, full containment of contaminated waters resulting from the mine operation will be essential to avoid residual impacts to ground water Light pollution Mining operations and associated vehicle traffic will create light pollution that can depress local populations of sensitive faunal groups. Animals differ in the degree to which they tolerate such disturbance, and can be expected to have potentially negative and positive impacts on various faunal groups. Insect populations in habitats adjacent to and illuminated by elevated lighting may be reduced with trophic transfer consequences for reptiles dependent upon them Mitigation measures for Light Pollution: Mine site security lights should be shielded and restricted to essential areas. Road traffic and mine operations should be restricted, where possible to daylight hours Noise pollution Mining operations and associated vehicle traffic will create noise pollution that can depress local populations of sensitive faunal groups. Animals differ in the degree to which they tolerate such disturbance, and can be expected to have potentially negative and positive impacts on various faunal groups. Noise pollution will occur during all phases (construction, operational, and de-commissioning/closure), but will be most significant during the construction phase. Little mitigation is possible Mitigation measures for Noise Pollution: Road traffic and mine operations should be restricted, where possible to daylight hours. Use of generators should be restricted and housed in facilities to dampen undue noise. 37

38 7.8 Where possible blasting should be restricted to daylight hours Management Interventions It is essential that the footprint of mine developments should be kept as small as possible to avoid un-necessary habitat loss and degradation. Sensitive habitats for reptiles and amphibians include forest, particularly on upper slopes and along water courses and wetlands. Impacts to these habitats during ongoing and future survey work and site development must be avoided as far as possible. This is particularly important during linear developments such as roads and power corridors. The control of turbidity and monitoring of water quality in water courses in and downstream of the development footprint must be monitored frequently to ensure that environmental impacts remain acceptable. It is logical and cost-effective for mine developments and infrastructural links to be undertaken in collaboration and communication with environmental specialists in order to incorporate suitable designs and layouts that minimise potential environmental impacts. The footprint of a proposed mine in the concession area will be large and will result in substantial habitat and faunal loss in the area. Suitable sensitive habitats in adjacent areas should be investigated and identified, particularly if they have formal protection. They may serve as possible off-set areas for future mitigation of projected mine impacts, and/or as suitable sites for faunal translocations. The Tokedah mine and associated developments are some of numerous other such initiatives in the Nimba region. These developments will result in cumulative environmental impacts, particularly in aquatic and wetlands habitats. Due to the sensitivity of the Mt Nimba range, and its status as a World Heritage Site, is desirable that these diverse developments be integrated into the planning and functioning of the existing (ENNR) and envisaged (WNNR) protected area network. Environmental education of local communities should highlight the impacts resulting from bush clearance, selective logging of hardwoods for charcoal production, unsustainable harvesting of bushmeat, etc. Although it will be difficult to change the traditional local custom of eating bush meat, there would be merit in trying to inform the community of the unsustainable nature of bush meat harvesting, including small birds killed by youth with catapults. The sale of bushmeat in the mine village and to mine staff should be prohibited 7.9 Further studies Due to the uniqueness of the region and the habitat diversity it is possible that additional new, threatened or sensitive species may be present in the mine development area. Previous reptile surveys, particularly those initiated in the LAMCO era, have not specifically concentrated on reptiles or applied modern systematic methodogies. Additional reptile surveys just after the commencement of the rainy season would add a large number of species to the baseline data species lists. This additional 38

39 information would enable the assessment of environmental impacts and are necessary for accurate faunal monitoring. Continued monitoring of reptile diversity during the construction and operational phases is recommended. Confirmation of the presence of sensitive reptile species must be brought to the attention of local conservation authorities so that suitable mitigation measures can be developed and implemented Dangerous Snakes of the Mount Nimba region The Nimba region has a diversity of medically important venomous snakes from numerous different families (14 species in four families). This has clinical significance as this diversity makes uniform medical treatment impossible. Many of the venomous snakes have venoms that are not neutralised by existing antivenoms. Others have venoms so toxic that lifethreatening symptoms may develop very quickly, and which require aggressive medical intervention and sometimes large volumes of antivenom. Yet others, although closely-related to very venomous species, may have medically insignificant venoms. In these cases the application of antivenom is contra-indicated as it may, in itself lead to complications in sensitive patients. Species with clinically important venoms, that are know to have caused human fatalities or serious morbidity include: Elapidae Forest cobra (Naja melanoleuca) Spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis) Western Green Mamba (Dendroaspis viridis) Viperidae Rhinoceros Viper (Riverjack) (Bitis nasicornis) Western Gaboon Viper (Bitis rhinoceros) Atractaspididae Burrowing asp (Atractaspis irregularis) Colubridae Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) Forest Vine Snake (Thelotornis kirtlandii) Species not know to have caused human fatalities but which are suspected to have clinically important venoms include: Elapidae Black Tree Cobra (Pseudohaje nigra) Viperidae Green bush viper (Atheris chlorechis) Species considered to have venoms likely to cause clinical symptoms, but which are not known to have caused human fatalities: Viperidae Spotted night adder (Causus maculatus) Lichtenstein s night adder (Causus lichtensteinii) Colubridae Black Tree Snake (Thrasops occidentalis) Blanding s Tree Snake (Boiga blandingii) During the recent surveys (this survey, Bangoua et al 2009, Penner 2011) 11 of these species were collected or recorded, including some (e.g. Western Gaboon Adder) within the confines of Yekepa. These included the 2 nd record of the rare Black Tree Cobra (Pseudohaje nigra) from Liberian Nimba. It should be stressed that genetic studies indicate the West African forest cobra (Naja melanoleuca) is a different species to populations in Central, Eastern and Southern Africa (W. Wuster, pers. comm.), and that existing antivenoms do not incorporate the 39

40 venom of this population in their manufacture and therefore may have reduced efficacy in the treatment of local forest cobra bites. The clinical presentation of snakebite and recommended treatment varies considerably between the different snake families. Due to the diversity of venomous snakes present, medical personnel must appreciate that optimal medical treatment varies depending upon the species concerned. Antivenom treatment is not always necessary, effective or safe. Venomous snakes are a natural part of functioning ecosystems and education of the risks of snakebite must be presented in a sympathetic and balanced manner Mitigation measures: Mine personnel and associated staff should be educated in the identification of the diverse venomous snakes in the region. Posters illustrating the major venomous snakes in the region, highlighting the visible distinguishing features to allow their identification, should be made available at schools, clinics, and social gathering sites, both on and off the mine site. First aid protocols for snakebite should be given to all personnel. Detailed medical protocols for the optimal treatment of bites from the different venomous snakes in the region should be developed and be available to medical personnel in the region. Evacuation procedures for serious medical emergencies associated with snakebite should be developed. 40

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47 APPENDIX 1. Observations on Amphibians During the present survey opportunity was taken to collect additional information on amphibians, including observations, vocalization, and tissues for genetic analysis. Voucher specimens were returned to the Bayworld herpetological collection (Port Elizabeth) and are available for researchers. The observations detailed below supplement previous studies (e.g. Lamotte 1998; Bangua et al. 2009; Penner 2011; Sandberger & Loua. 2010). In total 36 amphibian species were recorded during the present survey, with some specimens not confidently assigned to three additional taxa (Hyperolius sp., Phrynobatrachus sp. and Ptychadena sp.). This is comparable to (42, Bangoua et al. 2009), or exceeds (16, Sandberger & Loua 2010; 26, Penner 2011) the amphibian diversity revealed in other recent surveys. Together these surveys document 57 amphibians in the region (see Table A.1 for details). Following the early studies of Guibé and Lamotte (1958a, b, c, 1963), Lamotte (1998) summarized amphibian species diversity for Mt Nimba, recording at least 55 species. Although the taxonomic status of some species recorded by Lamotte (1998) differs from those during the recent surveys, it remains evident that the continued presence of a high proportion of the Nimba amphibian diversity recorded during the early herpetological surveys (see introduction) remains. Moreover, the description of a distinctive new puddle frog, Phrynobatrachus hieroglyphicus, from Mt Nimba indicates that other new amphibian species remain to be discovered in the region. The most important observations on amphibians recorded during the present survey include: The presence of the Endangered Wart Squeaker (Arthroleptis crusculum) at a small marsh in secondary forest on the lower slopes of Mt Gangra-Yuelliton. The discovery of the slender Rocket frog, Ptychadena stenocephala, a West African species previously unrecorded from Liberia; The discovery of a number of frogs (i.e. Hyperolius chlorestus, Phlyctimantis boulengeri, Phrynobatrachus cf. natalensis and P. phyllophilus), recorded from Nimba by Lamotte (1998, some under older names) that were not revealed during other recent surveys (Bangoua et al. 2009, Sandberger & Loua 2010, and Penner 2011). Table A.1 Amphibians of the Mount Nimba region, Liberia COMMON NAME CLASS: AMPHIBIA FAMILY: ARTHROLEPTIDAE SUBFAMILY: ARTHROLEPTINAE Red-legged Squeaker Warty Squeaker Western Long-fingered Frog SUBFAMILY: LEPTOPELINAE Big-eared Tree Frog Tree frog Green Tree frog FAMILY BUFONIDAE Liberian Nimba Toad Togo toad SCIENTIFIC NAME Arthroleptis cf. poecilonotus Arthroleptis crusculum Cardioglossa occidentalis Leptopelis macrotis Leptopelis spiritusnoctis Leptopelis viridis Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis liberiensis Amietophrynus togoensis AM Surveys Literature Status W, P *** B, S *** W S IUCN En W, P B W B IUCN NT W, P B B, S S IUCN CE W, P B IUCN NT Table A.1 Amphibians of the Mount Nimba region, Liberia (cont.) 47

48 COMMON NAME * Square-marked Toad Flat-backed Toad Toad Giant Toad FAMILY: HYPEROLIIDAE Brown Banana Frog Banded Banana frog Banana Frog Cochran s Kassina SCIENTIFIC NAME Amietophrynus regularis Amietophrynus maculatus Amietophrynus sp. Amietophrynus superciliaris chevalieri Afrixalus dorsalis Afrixalus fulvovittaus Afrixalus vittiger Kassina cf. cochranae Climbing Kassina Kassina arboricola? Kassina Bloulenger s Tree Frog Reed frog Reed frog Reed frog Reed frog Reed frog Reed frog Reed frog Reed Frog FAMILY: PHRYNOBATRACHIDAE Kassina sp. Phlyctimantis boulengeri Hyperolius chlorestus Hyperolius concolor Hyperolius fusciventris Hyperolus picturatus Hyperolius guttulatus Hyperolius lamottei Hyperolius sylvaticus Hyperolius sp. AM Surveys Literature Status W, P S W, P B, S P W W W P W W L IUCN NT? B B, S B, S B, S B W, P B W, P B W P W W B B, S B S IUCN NT IUCN VU Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus cf natalensis W Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus plicatus W, P B, Allen s Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus alleni W B IUCN NT Red-snouted Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus phyllophilus W Tokba Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus tokba W B, S Liberia Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus liberiensis W, P B IUCN NT Mimic Puddle frog Phrynobatrachus fraterculus W B Striped Pddle frog Phrynobatrachus latifrons * W, P B Banded Puddle Frog Phrynobatrachus annulatus B IUCN EN Guinea Puddle Frog Phrynobatrachus guineensis W B, S IUCN NT Puddle Frog Phrynobatrachus sp. W, P B Hieroglyph Puddle Frog ** Phrynobatrachus hieroglyphicus IUCN DD? Waterfall frog Petropedetes natator W, P B IUCN NT * where established ** Rodel et al (2011) *** W = Present survey; P = Penner 2011, B = Bangoura 2009, S = Sandberger & Loua

49 Table A.1 Amphibians of the Mount Nimba region, Liberia (cont.) COMMON NAME * FAMILY: ARSTYLOSTERNIDAE Western Night Frog FAMILY: PTYCHADENIDAE Bibron s Rocket Frog Long-nosed Rocket Frog Mascarene Rocket Frog Dwarf Rocket Frog Pujol Rocket Frog Sharp-nosed Rocket Frog SCIENTIFIC NAME Astylosternus occidentalis Ptychadena bibroni Ptychadena longirostris Ptychadena mascareniensis Ptychadena pumilio Ptychadena pujoli Ptychadena oxyrhynchus Rocket Frog Ptychadena submascareniensis Long-legged Rocket Frog Ptychadena cf. stenocephala W Tournier s Rocket Frog Rocket Frog FAMILY: RANiDAE River Frog Forest White-lipped Frog Forest Frog Frog FAMILY: RHACOPHORIDAE Foam nest frog FAMILY: PIPIDAE SUBFAMILY: XENOPODINAE Western platanna Ptychadena tournieri Ptychadena sp. Conrau cf. alleni Hylarana albolabris Hylarana cf. fonensis Hoplobatrachus occipitalis Chiromantis rufescens Silurana tropicalis TOTAL 57 AM Surveys Literature Status P B W, P B, S P B W, P B W B S B B B W, P B, S W, P B W, P B P B W, P B W B W, P B W = 39 B = 42 P = 26 S = 16 * A senior synonym of Phrynobatrachus accrensis (Rodel pers. comm.) ** Rodel et al (2011) *** W = Present survey; P = Penner 2011, B = Bangoura 2009, S = Sandberger & Loua 2010, L = Lamotte, 1998 IUCN DD IUCN DD First record Liberia IUCN VU IUCN DD CE = 1, EN = 2 VU = 2, NT = 8 DD = 3 The presence of two amphibians of conservation concern (Arthroleptis crusculum, Endangered; Conrau cf. alleni, Vulnerable) was confirmed, as were seven frogs of Near Threatened status, including: Leptopelis macrotis, Amietphrynus togoensis, Kassina cochrnaea, Phrynobatrachus alleni, P. liberiensis, P guineensis and Petropedetes natator (Table A.1). 49

50 APPENDIX 2. Notes on interesting or problematic species Conrau cf. alleni Within the aquatic frog Conraua, C. alleni is the only species described from the Upper Guinea rain forest, with collections from Liberia, Côte d Ivoire, Guinea and Sierra Leone (Lamotte and Perret 1968). Rödel and Branch (2003) and (2003) distinguished two species of Conraua from Côte d Ivoire, that were clearly different from C. derooi described from Togo. Two colour morphs (red and spotted, see below) were observed during the present survey, but their assignment to C. alleni is provisional and their relationship to frogs from Côte d Ivoire and other locations is being investigated (Rödel et al, in prep.). Conraua frogs were present in all rivers and creeks of the region. Two colour morphs of Conrau cf. alleni from the Nimba region Arthroleptis crusculum This small squeaker is listed as Endangered and published records are only from Guinean Mount Nimba from 500-1,650m asl. (Rödel & Drewes 2004). However, Sandberger & Loua (2010) reported possibly hearing the species on Mt Tokedah and also observing it at LAMCO. Its presence in Liberian Nimba is thus confirmed. The species appears to have wide habitat tolerance as Sandberger & Loua (2010) reported that it was common in high altitude grassland on Guinean Nimba, and the current record was found next to a low altitude (486m asl.) marsh. Drewes (in Rödel & Drewes 2004) notes that this distinctive species should probably be transferred to the monotypic genus Arthroleptulus. Red-legged Squeaker (Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus) Warty Squeaker (Arthroleptis crusculum) 50

51 Arthroleptis cf. poecilonotus The taxonomic status of the common squeaker in the forests of Mt Nimba and adjacent regions (e.g. western Côte d Ivoire (Rödel & Branch 2003) and other forests in Liberia (Hillers & Rödel 2007) remains confused, and currently under investigation (Rödel pers. comm.) Tree Frogs (Leptopelis) Two species of tree frog were encountered. The small species L. spiritusnoctis (previously confused with L. hyloides, a synonym of L. viridis Rödel 2007) was recorded in other recent surveys (Bangoua et al. 2009, Penner 2011). The large L. macrotis was recorded in two locations (Etke Stream, Grassfields and Tokedah swamp, confirming the record of Bangoua et al. 2009) for this Near Threatened species (Rödel & Schiotz 2004). Leptopelis macrotis Leptopelis spiritusnoctis Kassina cochranae There is confusion in various reports as to the specific identity of the Kassina occurring in the Liberian Nimba region. Bangoua et al (2009) list both K. arboricola and K. cf cochranae, without comment. However, the former is not known from Liberia, and currently all Liberian records appear referable to K cochranae. The specimens collected during the present survey all show the diagnostic features (unpigmented gular flap, spotted ventral surface to thighs, etc) documented for the species by Rödel et al. (2002). Penner s (2011) comprised tadpoles, unassignable to species. Phlyctimantis boulengeri A small population of this large tree frog was discovered breeding in secondary forest on the lower slopes of the Mt Tokedah forest. It was not recorded during other previous surveys, but has been recorded from Guinean Nimba (as P. leonardi) by Lamotte (1998), and from Grebo forest in southeast Liberia (Hillers & Rödel 2007). It is currently considered Least Concern (Rödel et al 2004), but Rödel (in Rödel et al 2004) has noted that the western populations probably belong to an undescribed species, which would necessitate reconsideration of its conservation status. 51

52 Kassina cochranae Phyltimanis boulengeri Long-toed Frog Blackburn et al. (2008) separated populations of C. leucomystax from the Upper Guinea forest region, describing the new species C. occidentalis. Western Long-toed Frog (Cardioglossa occidentalis) Foam-nest Frog (Chiromantis rufescens) Foam Nest Frog (Chiromantis rufescens) No evidence of breeding was found during the current survey, and only a single specimen was collected in secondary forest. It confirms the observation of Bangoua et al (2009). White-lipped Frog (Hylarana albolabis) 52

53 White-lipped Frog (Hylarana albolabis) The species was common, widespread and heard calling at a number of locations. It was found over 40m deep in an old mine adit on the forested slopes of Mt Tokedah, where the flank coloration was green (see image below). Three species of Hylarana (previously treated as Amnirana) may occur in the Nimba region. Although the current collection varies in lateral body coloration and dorsal texture, they are assignable to H. albolabris. None show the characteristic colour pattern of H. occidentalis (see Rödel & Branch 2002), or the marked dorsal roughness and slender toes of H. fonensis (Rödel & Bangoua 2004). The latter are relatively subjective characters that my lead to confusion in the field, and the records of H. cf. fonensis (Bangoua et al 2009, Penner 2011) from the Nimba region, indicate this confusion and need confirmation. Waterfall Frog (Petropedetes natator) This frog was common in all water courses with clear running water and emergent rocks. Different populations had tadpoles with or without white tail tips. The significance of this is unknown. Waterfall Frog (Petropedetes natator) and tadpole Leaf-folding Frogs (Afrixalus) Two species of Afrixalus were collected, often in association with farm clearings and banana plantations indicating the both species are tolerant of disturbance. Afrixalus fluvovittatus Afrixalus dorsalis 53

54 Reed Frogs (Hyperolius) Reed frogs present some of the most intractable taxonomic problems among African frogs. Juveniles in particular are often impossible to assign to species, and some cryptic species can only be confidently be assigned on the basis of breeding males and vocalization. At least 5-6 species can be expected in the region, of which five were collected during the present survey. None are considered of conservation concern. Reed Frogs (Hyperolius chlorestus, H. fusciventris, H concolor, H lamottei and H. picturatus); clockwise from top left Rocket Frogs (Ptychadena) A diversity of rocket frogs (Ptychadena) have been recorded from the Mt Nimba region, with eight species recognized (Table A.1; Bangoua et al. 2009, Doumbia et al 2010, Sandberger & 54

55 Loua 2010, and Penner 2011). However, the taxonomic status of frogs assigned to P. bibronii remain problematic (Rödel pers. comm.), whilst other specimens of Ptychadena of problematic assignment have been recorded in all recent surveys. One specimen of long-legged Ptychadena was collected at LAMCO that is referable to P. stenocephala in having no subdigital tubercles, reduced webbing and relatively smooth, sometime discontinuous dorsal ridges. This is the first record for Mount Nimba and possibly Liberia, and its taxonomic status and distribution therefore need surther study. The species is otherwise found in Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Uganda, and possibly Nigeria and Central African Republic. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, moist savanna, subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland, subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland, swamps, and intermittent freshwater marshes (Rödel 2000). Long-legged Rocket Frog (Ptychadena stenocephala), Sharp-nosed Rocket Frog (P. oxyrhynchus), Mascarene Rocket Frog (P. mascareniensis complex, Bibron s Rocket Frog (P. cf. bibronii); clockwise from top left Toads (Amietophrynus) Perhaps the greatest problem relating to amphibian species in the Nimba region relates to the status and biology of the Giant Toad, Amietophrynus superciliaris. This species was recorded in the region by Lamotte (1998), with a specimen (MNHN ) recorded from Mt. Tocadeh (= Tokedah). The Upper Guinea population has been recorded from 10 localities, mainly around Mt Nimba. It has been cautiously placed in a separate subspecies, Amietophrynus superciliaris chevalieri, rather than a full species because of its low genetic divergence (Bajeri et al 2011). However, the western population is known to have a loud advertisement calls in contrast to West Lower Guinean populations, and also shows distinct and robust differences in morphology. Further genetic studies may support specific recognition for the population. Given its geographic isolation and diagnosable morphology, it has been proposed (Bajeri et al 2011) that A. s. chevalieri be treated as Near Threatened. The species was not relocated during the present survey or others (Bangoua et al. 2009, Sandberger & Loua 2010, and Penner 2011), and its survival and habitat requirements in the region need attention. 55

56 Three other toad species have been described in the Nimba region. The uncommon Togo Toad (Amietophrynus togoensis), is considered Near Threatened (Rodel & Tandy 2004). It is noted to live only in primary forest, usually in close association with the streams in which it breeds, and is usually found on stones in shallow water, or among vegetation next to the streams (Rödel & Tandy 2004). It is thus threatened by both direct habitat loss (deforestation) and secondary effects on water turbidity associated with mining and logging. The other two toads (A. maculatus and A. regularis) are both of Least Concern (Mills et al. 2004, 2006). Both species were easily confused in the field, but most voucher specimens on close inspection share the warty parotid glands and numerous subdigital tubercles characteristic of A. maculatus ( 2000). Breeding aggregations were noted in numerous locations, particularly in old adits on Mt Gangra. The presence of A. regularis in the region was only noted in disturbed habitat in the Yekapa region during the present survey, as has been reported previously (Sandberger & Loua 2010, Penner 2011). Amietophrynus togoensis Amietophrynus maculatus Searches for the Nimba toadlet (Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis liberiensis) in suitable grassland habitat on the Nimba range were inhibited by the dry conditions. However, the species was the focus of a previous successful search (Sandberger & Loua 2010; Sandberger et al. 2010). Unsuccessful searchers were made in mesic rock habitats in old mine adits on Mt Gangra and Mt Tokedah, but these occur in presently and/or previously forested habitats. Puddle Frogs (Phrynobatrachus) As with Reed Frogs (Hyperolius), small Puddle Frogs include some of the commonest species and most difficult to identify. At least 11 species occur In the region, with new species still being described (e.g. P. heiroglyphicus Rödel et al. 2010). The also include a number of species of conservation concern (at least one Endangered and 4 Near Threatened). The presence of 10 species were identified during the survey, including two (P. cf. natalensis and P. phyllophilus) not recorded in other surveys. 56

57 Phrynobatrachus alleni Phrynobatrachus phyllophilus Phrynobatrachus guineensis Phrynobatrachus cf natalensis Phrynobatrachus tokba Phrynobatrachus fraterculus 57

58 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Phrynobatrachus plicatus Phrynobatrachus latifrons Phrynobatrachus sp. 58

59 2 Table of Localities for observed Reptiles Date Scientific Name Site Latitude Longitude Altitude (m) 29 January 2011 Afronatrix anoscopus Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Agama agama? Swimming pool, Yekepa town 07?35''12.0"N 008?30'46.6"W February 2011 Agama cf sylvanus 3rd cellphone tower, summit Liberian Nimba 07?31''11.9"N 008?31'05.3"W February 2011 Agama cf sylvanus Blue Lake 07?32'25.9"N 008?30'01.4"W February 2011 Agama cf sylvanus Blue Lake Viewpoint 07?32'35.3"N 008?29'52.3"W February 2011 Agama cf sylvanus Camp Four town, next to Yekepa complex 07?32''34.1"N 008?33'44.8"W 475 ruined houses on airstrip, Grassfields, Mt Nimba 24 January 2011 Agama cf sylvanus region, Liberia 07?29''23.5"N 008?34'56.8"W February 2011 Agama cf sylvanus Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Atheris chloechis Lower Tokedah forest, new haul road 07?27''19.2"N 008?39'15.4"W February 2011 Atractaspis irregularis Lower Tokedah forest, new haul road 07?27'04.9"N 008?38'58.7"W January 2011 Bitis nasicornis William Saki shamba, 5km along Grassfield road to E Nimba Nature Reserve, Liberia 07?27''19.6"N 008?35'33.4"W January 2011 Bitis rhinoceros Yekepa town 07?34''49,3"N 008?32'05.8"W January 2011 Boaedon fuliginosus 2 km NE of Tokedah Mine turning, Mt Nimba region, Liberia 07?28'07.5"N 008?37'21.5"W February 2011 Boaedon fuliginosus Yekepa town 07?34''49,3"N 008?32'05.8"W February 2011 Cnemaspis occidentalis Adit 3, Ganga N W February 2011 Cophoscincopus durus Tokedah Adit 07?27''54.2"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus durus Trapline 16, Tokedah Lower forest 1 07?27''19.4"N 008?39'46.9"W January 2011 Cophoscincopus durus Trapline 4 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus greeri Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Adit 2, Ganga 07'33'05.1"N 008'37'51.8"W

60 24 January 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Lower Blue Lake stream 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Trapline 14, Tokedah waterfall 07?26''40.9"N 008?39'26.9"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Trapline 17, Tokedah Lower forest 2 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Trapline 18, Tokedah forest 07?27''21.0"N 008?39'45.0"W February 2011 Cophoscincopus simulans Trapline 5, Adit 2, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W February 2011 Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Yekepa town 07?34''49,3"N 008?32'05.8"W February 2011 Gonionotophis crossi Camp Four town, next to Yekepa complex 07?32''34.1"N 008?33'44.8"W January 2011 Gonionotophis poensis Camp Four town, next to Yekepa complex 07?32''34.1"N 008?33'44.8"W January 2011 Grayia smithii Bata Village, on road to E Nimba Nature Res, Liberia 07?26''25.8"N 008?35'34.5"W February 2011 Grayia smithii Ganga streams N, W February 2011 Hapsidophrys smaragdina Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W January 2011 Hemidactylus mabouia ruined houses on airstrip, Grassfields, Mt Nimba region, Liberia 07?29''23.5"N 008?34'56.8"W January 2011 Hemidactylus mabouia Yekepa town 07?34''49,3"N 008?32'05.8"W February 2011 Hemidactylus murecius Lower Blue Lake stream 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W January 2011 Hemidactylus murecius Stream in E Nimba Nature Res, Liberia 07?24''48.4"N 008?35'22.5"W February 2011 Lepidothrys fernandi harlani Camp Four town, next to Yekepa complex 07?32''34.1"N 008?33'44.8"W February 2011 Lepidothrys fernandi harlani Trapline 18, Tokedah forest 07?27''21.0"N 008?39'45.0"W February 2011 Natriciteres variegatus Adit 2, Ganga 07'33'05.1"N 008'37'51.8"W February 2011 Philothamnus heterodermus Tokedah swamp road (new Haul Road) 07?27''08.3"N 008?39'06.1"W February Philothamnus irregularis Yekepa town 07?34''49,3"N 008?32'05.8"W

61 February 2011 Psammophis philippsi Yekepa town 07?34''49,3"N 008?32'05.8"W February 2011 Pseudohaje nigra Ganga-Yekepa road 07?34'24.9"N 008?37'08.1"W January 2011 Rhamniophis aethiopissa Tokedah Mine Entrance, Mt Nimba Region, Liberia 07?27''00.0"N 008?38'07.2"W February 2011 Thelotornis kirtlandii waterfall site, Mt Tokedah haul road 07?26''40.9"N 008?39'26.9"W January 2011 Thrasops occidentalis Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W 483 ruined houses on airstrip, Grassfields, Mt Nimba 24 January 2011 Trachylepis albilabris region, Liberia 07?29''23.5"N 008?34'56.8"W January 2011 Trachylepis albilabris Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Adit 1, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 10, Palm Plantation 07?32''01.9"N 008?34'31.2"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W January 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 14, Tokedah waterfall 07?26''40.9"N 008?39'26.9"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 18, Tokedah forest 07?27''21.0"N 008?39'45.0"W January 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 3 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 6, Adit 1, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 7, lower slopes Ganga N, W February 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Trapline 8, lower slopes Ganga N, W January 2011 Trachylepis maculilabris Vicinity of Trapline 3, E Mt Nimba Res, Liberia 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W February 2011 Varanus ornatus NE slopes Mt Yetillion 07?34''13.7"N 008?37'23.1"W 673 ArcelorMittalLiberia 61

62 10.3 Table of Localities for observed Amphibians Date Scientific Name Site Latitude Longitude Altitude (m) 08 February 2011 Afrixalus dorsalis Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W 486 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and 07 February 2011 Afrixalus dorsalis Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Afrixalus dorsalis ponds at Hydroelectric facility 07?34''23.2"N 008?29'34.4"W February 2011 Afrixalus dorsalis 07 February 2011 Afrixalus fluvovittatus Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W 605 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Afrixalus fluvovittatus ponds at Hydroelectric facility 07?34''23.2"N 008?29'34.4"W 583 Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, 14 February 2011 Afrixalus fluvovittatus Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W February 2011 Ameitophrynus maculatus Trapline 18, Tokedah forest 07?27''21.0"N 008?39'45.0"W January 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Adit 1, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W February 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Adit 4, Ganga 07?32''37.3"N 008?38'01.3"W February 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Blue Lake 07?32'25.9"N 008?30'01.4"W January 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W February 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Trapline 10, Palm Plantation 07?32''01.9"N 008?34'31.2"W February 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Trapline 5, Adit 2, Ganga 07'33'05.1"N 008'37'51.8"W February 2011 Amietophrynus maculatus Trapline 5, Adit 2, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W January 2011 Amietophrynus regularis Stream at Yekepa, Mt Nimba region, Liberia 07?34''52.1"N 008?32'04.6" January 2011 Amietophrynus regularis Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W 483 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 29 January 2011 Amietophrynus togoensis County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Amietophrynus togoensis Lower Blue Lake stream 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W January 2011 Amnirana albolabris Etke Stream 07?29''03.0"N 008?32'36.7"W

63 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 29 January 2011 Amnirana albolabris County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Amnirana albolabris Lower Blue Lake stream (Trapline 21) 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W February 2011 Amnirana albolabris Tokedah Adit 07?27''54.2"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Amnirana albolabris Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W 507 Trapline 12 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga 16 February 2011 Amnirana albolabris Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Amnirana albolabris Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Adit 1, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W 507 Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, 10 February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W January 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 17, Tokedah Lower forest 2 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 18, Tokedah forest 07?27''21.0"N 008?39'45.0"W January 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 3 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 6, Adit 1, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 7, lower slopes Ganga N W 502, 03 February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 8, lower slopes Ganga N W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus Trapline 9, Palm Plantation 07?31''58.2"N 008?34'40.9"W February 2011 Arthroleptis cf poecilonotus vicinity Trapline 20 07?33''36.0"N 008?30'24.8"W February 2011 Arthroleptis crusculum Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W January 2011 Cardioglossa occidentalis Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Cardioglossa occidentalis Trapline 8, lower slopes Ganga N, W February 2011 Chiromantis rufescens Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W February 2011 Conrau alleni Coldstream Stream, ENNR 07?24'45.3"N 008?35'26.3"W 509 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 29 January 2011 Conrau alleni County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W

64 18 February 2011 Conrau alleni Lower Blue Lake stream (Trapline 21) 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W 577, 04 February 2011 Conrau alleni Stream 1, Lower slopes Mt Nimba range N W February 2011 Conrau alleni Trapline 16, Tokedah Lower forest 1 07?27''19.4"N 008?39'46.9"W February 2011 Conrau alleni Trapline 20, Lower Nimba 07?33''36.0"N 008?30'24.8"W February 2011 Hoplobatrachus sp Swimming pool, Yekepa town 07?35''12.0"N 008?30'46.6"W January 2011 Hypeolius chlorestus Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Hyperolius chloratus ponds at Hydroelectric facility 07?34''23.2"N 008?29'34.4"W February 2011 Hyperolius concolor 26 January 2011 Hyperolius concolor 26 January 2011 Hyperolius concolor Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W 471 Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W 605 William Saki shamba, 5km along Grassfield road to E Nimba Nature Reserve, Liberia 07?27''19.6"N 008?35'33.4"W 512 Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, 10 February 2011 Hyperolius fusciventris Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W February 2011 Hyperolius lamottei ponds at Hydroelectric facility 07?34''23.2"N 008?29'34.4"W February 2011 Hyperolius picturatus Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Hyperolius sp Banana grove, lower Ganga 07?34''06.8"N 008?33'31.1"W February 2011 Hyperolius sp Blue Lake 07?32'25.9"N 008?30'01.4"W 854, 05 February 2011 Hyperolius sp Stream 1, Lower slopes Mt Nimba range N W February 2011 Kassina cochranae Blue Lake 07?32'25.9"N 008?30'01.4"W February 2011 Kassina cochranae Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Kassina cochranae Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W 486 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 29 January 2011 Leptopelis macrotis County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Leptopelis macrotis Tokedah Palm Swamp 07?27''20.4"N 008?39'17.2"W 456 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 29 January 2011 Leptopelis spiritusnoctis County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Peteropedetes natator Tokedah Adit 07?27''54.2"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Peteropedetes natator Trapline 19, Tokedah forest waterfall 07?27''21.4"N 008?39'45.5"W

65 28 January 2011 Petropedetes natator Coldstream Stream, ENNR 07?24'45.3"N 008?35'26.3"W January 2011 Petropedetes natator Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Petropedetes natator Lower Blue Lake stream 07?33''34.5"N 008?30'26.7"W February 2011 Petropedetes natator Stream 1, Lower slopes Mt Nimba range N, W February 2011 Petropedetes natator Stream 2, Upper slopes Mt Nimba range N, W February 2011 Petropedetes natator Tokedah forest waterfall 07?27''21.4"N 008?39'45.5"W February 2011 Petropedetes natator Tokedah Waterfall 07?26''40.9"N 008?39'26.9"W January 2011 Petropedetes natator waterfall site, Mt Tokedah haul road 07?26''40.9"N 008?39'26.9"W February 2011 Phlyctimantis boulengeri Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus alleni Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus alleni Trapline 12 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus cf natalensis Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus cf natalensis Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus fraterculus Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W 486 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 31 January 2011 Phrynobatrachus guineensis County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus latifrons Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus latifrons Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus latifrons Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Etke Stream 07?29''03.0"N 008?32'36,7"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Trapline 3 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W 556, 03 February 2011 Phrynobatrachus liberiensis Trapline 8, lower slopes Ganga N W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus phyllophilus beside Trapline 4 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W

66 31 January 2011 Phrynobatrachus phyllophilus Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Tokedah Adit 07?27''54.2"N 008?39'55.3"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Trapline 12 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Trapline 15 Tokedah upper forest 07?27''52.3"N 008?39'55.3"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Trapline 3 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus plicatus Trapline 4 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp Adit 1, Ganga 07'33'15.6"N 008'37'44.4"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp Coldstream Stream, ENNR 07?24'45.3"N 008?35'26.3"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp Lower Blue Lake stream (Trapline 21) 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp ponds at Hydroelectric facility 07?34''23.2"N 008?29'34.4"W February 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp Trapline 3 07?24''47.0"N 008?35'22.7"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus sp William Saki shamba, 5km along Grassfield road to E Nimba Nature Reserve, Liberia 07?27''19.6"N 008?35'33.4"W January 2011 Phrynobatrachus tokba Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W January 2011 Ptychadena bibroni Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 Ptychadena bibroni Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Ptychadena bibroni Trapline 11 Ganga Kassina seepage 07'34'26.9"N 008'36'16.4"W February 2011 Ptychadena bibronii Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W February 2011 Ptychadena bibronii Tokedah Palm Swamp 07?27''20.4"N 008?39'17.2"W January 2011 Ptychadena bibronii Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W February 2011 Ptychadena cf bibroni Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W February 2011 Ptychadena cf mascarieniensis Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W February 2011 Ptychadena oxyrhynchus Trapline 22, Lower Nimba 07?33''49.7"N 008?30'22,1"W

67 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga Tailings and 08 February 2011 Ptychadena sp Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Ptychadena sp ponds at Hydroelectric facility 07?34''23.2"N 008?29'34.4"W February 2011 Ptychadena stenocephala vicinity Trapline 22 07?33''49.7"N 008?30'22,1"W January 2011 Silurana tropicalis Trapline ?29''05.6"N 008?34'40.4"W 483 Trapline 12 Gbapa diamond pits on Ganga 11 February 2011 Silurana tropicalis Tailings and Freshwater dams 07?29''03.4"N 008?37'38.3"W February 2011 Silurana tropicalis Trapline 14, Tokedah waterfall 07?26''40.9"N 008?39'26.9"W February 2011 Silurana tropicals Tokedah forest bridge, new haul road 07?27''20.2"N 008?39'42.7"W February 2011 tadpoles Adit 2, Ganga 07'33'05.1"N 008'37'51.8"W 728 Etke Stream, Grassfields region, Nimba 31 January 2011 tadpoles County, Liberia 07?29''06.3"N 008?34'38.2"W February 2011 tadpoles Lower Blue Lake stream (Trapline 21) 07?33''33.2"N 008?30'23.6"W February 2011 tadpoles Swimming pool, Yekepa town 07?35''12.0"N 008?30'46.6"W February 2011 tadpoles Tokedah Swamp forest, Mt Nimba Region, Liberia 07?27''30.9"N 008?39'54.4"W