Red List of South African Species

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Data Deficient (DD)
Assessors: Peter Taylor David Jacobs Lientjie Cohen Kate MacEwan Leigh Rosanne Richards Corrie Schoeman Theresa Sethusa Ara Monadjem
Contributors: Domitilla Raimondo Matthew Child
Reviewers: Peter Taylor David Jacobs Lientjie Cohen Kate MacEwan Leigh Rosanne Richards Corrie Shoeman Theresa Sethusa Ara Monadjem

Rationale

While N. melckorum was previously considered distinct from N. capensis, recent research reveals that the Western Cape specimens are conspecific with N. capensis, and that only the Kruger National Park population is distinct on a chromosomal level, which is provisionally called N. cf. melckorum pending formal naming. While this species qualifies as Vulnerable D2 based on only one location, there are no plausible threats because it exists inside a protected area at the edge of its range. Thus, we list here as Least Concern. It was Not Evaluated in the previous assessment as it was considered a vagrant. However, we list it here to highlight the need for further research and clarity. Taxonomic resolution is required and more accurate delimitation of its range and ecology through field surveys is recommended.

Regional population effects: This species appears to be widely but sparsely distributed in Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia and Malawi with connected habitat between these regions and the assessment region through the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. However, wing loading is very low (M. Happold unpubl. data), so rescue effects are uncertain.

Distribution

Recorded from scattered localities in woodland and bushland habitats in Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa (see references in Happold 2013). It seems likely that the Zimbabwe specimens reported by Cotterill (1996) represent this species. Overall, its distribution is unclear because of taxonomic confusion with N. capensis. Its distribution beyond southern Africa is unknown (Monadjem et al. 2010). Within the assessment region, its presence has only been confirmed from Pafuri, Kruger National Park.

Population trend

Trend

It appears to be uncommon. For example, it has been rarely recorded in Malawi (Happold 2013). Population size and trends are uncertain due to taxonomic uncertainties.

Threats

The threats to this species are unknown, but presumably insignificant due to its occurrence in a well-managed transfrontier park. In Madagascar, it has been recorded from degraded or modified habitats (ACR 2015).

Uses and trade

Not known to be traded or utilised in any form.

Conservation

Occurs exclusively in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park within the assessment region. No conservation interventions are necessary at present.

Research priorities:
  • Further studies are needed to resolve the taxonomic status of this species, and to better determine the species distribution, habitat requirements and any potential threats.

References 

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