Distribution and Ecology of Small Mammals in Three Rain Forest Localities of Peninsula Malaysia With Particular References to Kedah Peak

Abstract

The small terrestrial mammals of an isolated Malaysian mountain were studied by live trapping and removal techniques. Population densities were estimated by removal trapping and compared with other estimates. The altitudinal distribution was examined using 4 line transects and a grid from 150-1000 m. The common tree shrew, Tupaia glis, occurred at all elevations, but the rats Leopoldamys sabanus, Maxomys surifer/rajah and M. whiteheadi were replaced by Niviventer bukit and Berylmys bowersii at 1000 m. Biomass estimates appeared to be greater than those given for small ground mammals in other Malayan rainforests, but less than those in Neotropical forests. T. glis showed a definite breeding season. Survival rate for M. surifer was 0.80/month. All trapped animals ate insects, but these were major items only for T. glis, L. sabanus and M. surifer.