Overview

 Poemys melanotis s.l.- (Smith, 1834)

ANIMALIA – CHORDATA – MAMMALIA – RODENTIA – NESOMYIDAE – Poemys – melanotis sensu lato 

Common Names: Grey African Climbing Mouse, Grey Climbing Mouse, Grey Pygmy Tree Mouse (English), Grys Klimmuis, Grys Boommuis (Afrikaans)

Synonyms and previously recognised names: Dendromys melanotis (A. Smith, 1834), Dendromys subtilis (Sundevall, 1847), Dendromys pallidus (Fitzinger, 1867), Dendromys pallidus (von Heuglin, 1877); Dendromys nigrifrons (F. W. True, 1892); Dendromus spectabilis (E. Heller, 1911); Dendromus (Poemys) nigrifrons vulturnus (O. Thomas, 1916); Dendromus (Poemys) exoneratus (O. Thomas, 1918); Dendromus (Poemys) arenarius (A. Roberts, 1924); Dendromus melanotis (A. Roberts, 1924); Dendromus nigrifrons (A. Roberts, 1924); Dendromus nigrifrons nigrifrons (Granvik, 1924); Dendromus (Poëmys) concinnus (O. Thomas, 1926); Dendromus melanotis basuticus (A. Roberts, 1927); Dendromus (Poemys) melanotis chiversi (A. Roberts, 1929); Dendromus (Poemys) nigrifrons shortridgei (St. Leger, 1930); Dendromus melanotis capensis (A. Roberts, 1931); Dendromus melanotis pretoriae (A. Roberts, 1931); Dendromus melanotis thorntoni (A. Roberts, 1931); Pœmys concinnus Shortridge, 1934; Pœmys nigrifrons Shortridge, 1934; Poemys melanotis insignis Shortridge & T. D. Carter, 1938; Poemys melanotis capensis Shortridge, 1942; Poemys melanotis Shortridge, 1942; Poemys melanotis thorntoni Shortridge, 1942. 

Taxonomic Note: The taxonomic status of this species is uncertain as evidenced by its karyotypic variability and many synonyms (Monadjem 2013). Analysis of chromosomal and molecular variation has revealed the presence of four putative cryptic species within the Poemys. melanotis (formerly Dendromus melanotis) clade in South Africa (Solano et al. 2014; Voelker et al. 2021). Meester et al. (1986) recognised five southern African subspecies, that have since been synonymised: D. m.  arenarius from Botswana and the Northern Cape province of South Africa, D. m. concinnus from Namibia, D. m. vulturnus from the KwaZulu-Natal and Free State provinces of South Africa and Lesotho, and D. m. shortridgei from Botswana and Zimbabwe. Several of these previously listed synonyms, (arenarius, vulturnus, and basuticus), are likely to represent distinct species (Voelker et al. 2021). Furthermore, it is recommended that representatives of other synonymised taxa, including capensis, chiversi, pretoriae, and shortridgei, be incorporated into future integrative taxonomic studies to evaluate their status. Additional research is urgently needed to confirm the taxonomic validity of these putative species and to establish the appropriate nomenclature (Voelker et al. 2021; Mammal Diversity Database 2025). Due to taxonomic uncertainty and the absence of clear biogeographical boundaries for the genetic clades that may represent distinct species, the taxon is herein referred to as P. melanotis sensu lato. 

Red List Status: LC – Least Concern, (IUCN version 3.1) 

Assessment Information

Assessors: Richards, L.R.¹ & da Silva, J.M.² 

Reviewers: Patel, T³. 

Institutions:¹Durban Natural Science Museum,²South African National Biodiversity Institute,³Endangered Wildlife Trust 

Previous Assessors and Reviewers: MacFadyen, D. & Relton, C. 

Previous Contributors: Child, M.F., Avenant, N., Avery, M., Baxter, R., Monadjem, A., Palmer, G., Taylor, P. & Wilson, B. 

Assessment Rationale 

Listed as Least Concern as it has an expansive range within the assessment region, occurs commonly across a range of habitats, including many protected areas (such as Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Telperion Nature Reserve, Rooipoort Nature Reserve, and Kruger National Park), and has been recorded from both intact and degraded areas. Currently there are no major threats expected to cause extensive population decline. However, continued habitat loss as a result of mining, urban expansion, intensive agriculture and forestry is suspected to be causing local declines or extinctions and should be monitored carefully. Population numbers also tend to fluctuate, with higher numbers recorded in autumn and winter on the Highveld. Finally, taxonomic resolution is required as four cryptic species may occur in South Africa, which may necessitate reassessment of this species.

Regional population effects: This species is expected to disperse from Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia into South Africa. As a generalist in its habitat preference, this species would allow for easy dispersal through modified habitats. Its range is largely contiguous except for isolated populations in northern Namibia and central Africa. 

Reasons for Change 

Reason(s) for Change in Red List Category from the Previous Assessment: No change 

Red List Index 

Red List Index: No change 

Recommended citation: Richards LR & da Silva JM. 2025. A conservation assessment of Poemys melanotis s.l.. In Patel T, Smith C, Roxburgh L, da Silva JM & Raimondo D, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Regional Distribution and occurrence

Geographic Range 

This species was historically widely distributed in southern and East Africa (Monadjem et al. 2015), including parts of Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, the central and southern parts of Mozambique, and all provinces in South Africa (Skinner and Chimimba 2005). It also occured in both Eswatini and Lesotho (Lynch 1994, Monadjem 1998). In Gauteng and Mpumalanga this species was recorded in high numbers in all habitats on Ezemvelo Nature Reserve and Telperion Nature Reserve (MacFadyen 2014). This species was also recorded in low numbers at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve and Rooipoort Nature Reserve in the Northern Cape (D. MacFadyen unpubl. data), and has been recorded in Tussen-die-Riviere Nature Reserve in the Free State (Ferreira and Avenant 2003). There have been no documented range expansions for the species (for example, Power 2014), and it is expected that its range has not decreased (MacFadyen 2014). However, the records from the interior of the country (Figure 1) require investigation as they have not yet been confirmed (see Monadjem et al. 2015). Recent phylogenetic evidence suggests that the true range of P. melanotis sensu stricto may be much more restricted, likely limited to South Africa’s Eastern Cape province. The broader distribution previously attributed to this species within the assessment region, appears to include at least three distinct putative species, which likely correspond to subspecies described earlier (Roberts 1954; Voelker et al. 2021). 

Elevation / Depth / Depth Zones 

Elevation Lower Limit (in metres above sea level): 0 

Elevation Upper Limit (in metres above sea level): 2,700 m asl (Rowe-Rowe and Meester 1982a) 

Depth Lower Limit (in metres below sea level): N/A 

Depth Upper Limit (in metres below sea level): N/A 

Depth Zone: N/A 

Map

Figure 1. Distribution records for Grey Climbing Mouse (Poemys melanotis) within the assessment region (South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho). Note that distribution data is obtained from multiple sources and records have not all been individually verified.

Biogeographic Realms 

Biogeographic Realm: Afrotropical 

Occurrence 

Countries of Occurrence 

Large Marine Ecosystems (LME) Occurrence 

Large Marine Ecosystems: N/A 

FAO Area Occurrence 

FAO Marine Areas: N/A 

Climate change

To date, no formal studies have examined the potential impacts of climate change, along with associated bioclimatic and environmental shifts, on the biology, ecology, or physiology of this species. Although the species is found across a variety of habitats, it is commonly associated with grass-dominated landscapes (Skinner and Chimimba 2005). Midgley and Thuiller (2011) predicted a 30% replacement of grassland-dominated habitats by more arid-adapted or tolerant vegetation types (e.g. thorn-scrub savanna). This may result in the displacement or range contraction of grassland-associated species, that may include P. melanotis s.l. within the assessment region. Given its broad habitat tolerance (Skinner and Chimimba 2005; Monadjem 2013) and capacity to recolonise disturbed areas (Rowe-Rowe and Lowry 1981; Simelane et al. 2018; Mdluli et al. 2022), this species may experience less severe impacts from climate change compared to other Poemys and Dendromus species within the assessment region. However, this perspective could change once the taxonomic status of regional populations is fully resolved. 

In general, rodent population declines tend to be more pronounced in habitats experiencing significant anthropogenic transformation or, alternatively, in high-altitude environments where the effects of climate change are likely to be intensified (Wan et al. 2022). Further research is required to assess the potential impacts of climate change on this species, and recently found cryptic species, within the assessment region. 

Population

It is the most abundant of all climbing mouse species within the assessment region (Monadjem et al. 2013). For example, it was the third most common small mammal species in different high-altitude grassland habitats in KwaZulu-Natal (Rowe-Rowe and Meester 1982a), and the second most captured rodent across various habitats in the greater Telperion Nature Reserve (Gumbi et al. 2018; Mdluli et al. 2022). However, it is difficult to trap (Willan 1986), and thus population assessments are difficult. Population fluctuations occur seasonally and between different vegetation communities. MacFadyen (2014) recorded local movements within a subpopulation in the Highveld Grasslands of Gauteng and Mpumalanga in autumn and winter, revealing higher population numbers during these seasons. MacFadyen (2014) estimated density in Rocky Highveld Grassland at 5 animals / ha, with a higher density of 12 animals / ha recorded in degraded grassland. Gumbi et al. (2018) supported the notion that the species is locally abundant within disturbed habitats. This result is an indication that this species is able to inhabit a spectrum of habitats, from undisturbed to modified environments. 

Population Information 

Current population trend: Stable 

Continuing decline in mature individuals? Unknown, but unlikely.   

Extreme fluctuations in the number of subpopulations: This cannot be determined without phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses that resolve the taxonomic status of local populations. 

Continuing decline in number of subpopulations: This cannot be determined without phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses that resolve the taxonomic status of local populations. 

All individuals in one subpopulation: This cannot be determined without phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses that resolve the taxonomic status of local populations. 

Number of mature individuals in largest subpopulation: Unknown 

Number of Subpopulations: This cannot be determined without phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses that resolve the taxonomic status of local populations. 

Quantitative Analysis 

Probability of extinction in the wild within 3 generations or 10 years, whichever is longer, maximum 100 years: (Not specified) 

Probability of extinction in the wild within 5 generations or 20 years, whichever is longer, maximum 100 years: (Not specified) 

Probability of extinction in the wild within 100 years: (Not specified) 

Population Genetics

While a recent phylogenetic investigation of Climbing mice has been conducted, the authors were unable to include a ‘true’ P. melanotis specimen in their analyses, as none of the sampled regions encompassed those typically associated with the description “Port Natal” = greater Durban) (Voelker et al. 2021). As such, making strong inferences about this species in respect of its distributional limits and likely population characteristics is challenging. However, the authors report that the distribution of this previously assumed widespread species (i.e. P. melanotis) may be very narrowly distributed within the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, under the assumption of additional cryptic taxa being described from the eastern regions of South Africa (Voelker et al. 2021). If this is true, the species may exist as a single metapopulation within the assessment region. However, this needs to be validated with additional molecular research, ideally incorporating comprehensive sampling across its presumed range. Such a study would also be invaluable in obtaining information on the genetic health/status/diversity of the species. 

Habitats and ecology

The Grey African Climbing Mouse typically inhabits grassland and savannah regions, and is associated with a wide variety of habitats, including areas with a relatively low biomass, areas with stands of tall grass such as Hyparrhenia (Lynch 1994) and Merxmuellera spp., short montane grassland (Rowe-Rowe and Meester 1982a, Taylor 1998) and shrubs of the Savannah Biome (such as dry Kalahari scrub, river fringes and flood plains), as well as other areas where vegetation has encroached.  It was recorded on Telperion Nature Reserve habitats ranging from densely grassed areas to rocky areas with sparse grass cover (MacFadyen 2014). In winter months, MacFadyen (2014) recorded this species in large numbers within Seriphum plumosum. Rautenbach et al. (2014) trapped this species at Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, predominantly within Vachellia nilotica/Hyphaene coricea and Terminalia sericea woodlands, and one specimen was caught in the Drypetes arguta sandforest. Although considered to be a species preferring riverine conditions, it has been recorded in dry grassland, often some distance from water. This species is a habitat generalist, and has been recorded in both intact and degraded/disturbed areas, but is absent from overgrazed areas with very low biomass. It occurs from sea level right up to altitudes of approximately 2,700 m in the Drakensberg.

Like other species of climbing mice, this nocturnal and largely terrestrial species accesses seeds and invertebrates in low bushes and grass stalks, using its slender digits to grip and climb and its prehensile tail for balance. Thus, it is adapted to being semi-arboreal (Monadjem 2013). It weaves a grass nest with a single entrance usually attached to grass stems or shrubs up to 1 m above the ground (Skinner and Chimimba 2005; Monadjem 2013). The Grey Climbing Mouse has been observed to dig burrows approximately 0.5 m deep, featuring a nest chamber and an exit opposite the entrance tunnel (De Graaf 1981). These burrows are thought to protect the animals from veld fires, which may explain their ability to recolonise burned areas within a month (Monadjem, 2013). Several studies suggest that D. melanotis may represent a “pioneer species,” given its presence of the species in recently burnt grassland habitats (Rowe-Rowe and Lowry 1982; Simelane et al. 2018). However, this fairly rapid recolonization capability may be site specific as elsewhere the species was reported to suffer 100% post-burn mortality (Swanepoel 1981).  

The species will feed on seeds, but also feeds on a wide range of invertebrates, including termites, crickets and moths. This species is solitary, or lives in pairs or small family groups; it breeds seasonally, with females usually producing litters of between two and four. 

Ecosystem and cultural services: There are no recognised cultural uses for this species. Similar to other small mammals, this species plays a role in regulating invertebrate numbers, seed predation, nutrient cycling, and is an important prey species for predators (Monadjem 2013). 

IUCN Habitats Classification Scheme 

Life History 

Generation Length: Unknown 

Age at Maturity: Female or unspecified: Unknown 

Age at Maturity: Male: Unknown 

Size at Maturity (in cms): Female: Mean total length = 15. 3 cm (Rautenbach 1982) 

Size at Maturity (in cms): Male: Mean total length = 15. 2 cm (Rautenbach 1982) 

Longevity: Unknown 

Average Reproductive Age: Unknown 

Maximum Size (in cms): Female maximum total length = 19.8 cm; Male maximum total length = 18.5 cm (Rautenbach 1982) 

Size at Birth (in cms): Unknown 

Gestation Time: Unknown 

Reproductive Periodicity: Reproductively active within the summer and early autumn months, with pregnant females recorded between November to April within the assessment region (Jacobsen 1977; De Graaf 1981; Rowe-Rowe and Meester 1982b; Lynch 1994). 

Average Annual Fecundity or Litter Size: Litter sizes are typically 2-4 pups (De Graaf 1981), however, litters containing up to 6-7 pups have been recorded (Hanney 1965; Jacobsen 1977).  

Natural Mortality: As with Dendromus spp., predated upon by a variety of predators including snakes (De Graaf 1981), various raptors (Nel and Nolte 1965) and meso-carnivores such as Cape Fox (Vulpes chama; Klare et al. 2014) and Black-backed Jackal (Lupelella mesomelas; Rowe-Rowe 1983) 

Does the species lay eggs? No 

Does the species give birth to live young: Yes 

Does the species exhibit parthenogenesis: No 

Does the species have a free-living larval stage? No 

Does the species require water for breeding? No 

Movement Patterns 

Movement Patterns: Movement and dispersal patterns remain poorly understood. Jacobsen (1977) reported that the species can traverse considerable distances relative to its body size, as marked individuals were later found 60–100 meters away from their initial capture locations. 

Congregatory: Bonded pairs may occupy the same burrow (De Graaf 1981). Family groups will continue to use the grass nest even after the young have been weaned (Skinner & Chimimba 2005). 

Systems 

System: Terrestrial 

General Use and Trade Information

There is no known subsistence or commercial use of this species. 

Local Livelihood: None reported or known at present.   

National Commercial Value: None reported or known at present. 

International Commercial Value: None reported or known at present. 

End Use: None reported or known at present. 

Is there harvest from captive/cultivated sources of this species? None reported or known at present. 

Harvest Trend Comments: N/A 

Threats

There are no major threats to this fairly resilient species. However, habitat loss from mining, forestry, intensive agricultural expansion and urban expansion, combined with habitat degradation through overgrazing may lead to local declines or even extinctions. The impact of these threats on the population remains to be quantified. Following taxonomic resolution, the severity of regional threats facing any cryptic species should be established. Although they are able to survive in degraded areas, excessively overgrazed areas and areas transformed into habitats with little or no biomass would negatively impact this species. 

Conservation

This species occurs in numerous protected areas across the assessment region, including Telperion Nature Reserve (Mpumalanga), Ezemvelo Nature Reserve and Rietvlei Nature Reserve (Gauteng), Tswalu Kalahari Reserve and Rooipoort Nature Reserve (Northern Cape), Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve (Limpopo), many protected areas in KwaZulu-Natal including iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the Kruger National Park. No specific conservation interventions are necessary, but the species would benefit from correct land management practices that restore degraded grassland areas, reduce overgrazing and implement a well-managed fire regimen, benefiting terrestrial small mammal communities as a whole. 

Recommendations for land managers and practitioners: 

• No specific management plan is necessary. However, this species would benefit from correctly managed agricultural lands, which restricts overgrazing as much as possible. 

Research priorities: 

• This is a species complex that requires taxonomic resolution. 

• Population size and trend estimates, including population boundaries and overlaps within the species complex, as well as investigation into the reproductive rate and breeding success of this species. 

• Quantification of the impacts of habitat loss across the species’ range. 

• Understanding the local movements and dispersal mechanisms exhibited by this species. 

• Research into the contribution made by this species to overall ecosystem functioning. 

Encouraged citizen actions: 

• Report sightings on virtual museum platforms (e.g., iNaturalist and MammalMAP), especially outside protected areas. 

• Deceased specimens should be submitted to the nearest accredited museum or biological repository for proper documentation and preservation.    

• Report illegal mining practice and contribute to public pressure on post mining rehabilitation and restoration. 

• Plant indigenous species in gardens and thus create suitable habitats. 

• Create corridors to offset the impacts of urbanisation and ensure movement and gene flow between populations. 

• Encourage organic agriculture and reduce the use of insecticides and herbicides as much as possible. 

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