curriculum vitae colleen t. downs (bsc hons, med, phd, pr ...lifesciences.ukzn.ac.za/files/postgard...

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Colleen T. Downs (BSc Hons, MEd, PhD, Pr Nat Sci, UKZN Fellow)

“I would emphasise the importance of the biological sciences in the education of man for

life....Many of our present social problems are fundamentally biological in nature...”

Prof SF Bush 1942, Prof JAJ Meester 1972

Personal details

Name: Colleen Thelma Downs

Title: Prof.

Date of Birth: 03.11.63

Nationality: South African

Gender: Female

Marital status: Married – Husband James R. Wood

Children: Tori Wood DOB 19.11.01, Emmi Wood DOB 25.10.02

Contact details:

School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P/Bag X01, Scottsville,

Pietermaritzburg, 3209, South Africa.

Tel: +27-33-2605127; +27-829202026

Email: [email protected]

Academic qualifications

BSc University of Natal 1984

BSc Hons University of Natal 1985

PhD University of Natal 1990

MEd University of Natal 2002

ResearcherID: A-7770-2010

ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8334-1510

http://scholar.google.co.za/citations?user=zXKfKu0AAAAJ&hl=en

Scopus Author ID:7005341100

http://lifesciences.ukzn.ac.za/Staff/Biodiversity/biodiv_evo_staff/Pmb/downsc.aspx

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Colleen_Downs?ev=hdr_xprf

Academic Employment History

Institution Date Title Responsibilities

University of

KwaZulu-Natal

2015-2021 Professor, National Research

Foundation SARChI Chair

Research and postgraduate

supervision. Lecturing &/ co-

ordinator 3rd & Hons year

Biology courses

University of

KwaZulu-Natal

2011-2015 Professor Lecturing 1st , 2nd , 3rd & Hons

year Biology courses, 2nd yr &

3rd yr course co-ordinator,

supervising postgraduates

University of

KwaZulu-Natal

2006-2010 Associate Professor Lecturing 1st , 2nd , 3rd and

Hons year Biology courses, 1st

yr, 2nd & 3rd yr course co-

mailto:[email protected]

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8334-1510

http://scholar.google.co.za/citations?user=zXKfKu0AAAAJ&hl=en

http://lifesciences.ukzn.ac.za/Staff/Biodiversity/biodiv_evo_staff/Pmb/downsc.aspx

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Colleen_Downs?ev=hdr_xprf

2

ordinator, supervising

postgraduates

University of

KwaZulu-Natal

2003-2005 Associate Professor As below but co-ordinating 1st

yr Biology courses,

supervising postgraduates

University of Natal 2001-2003 Senior Lecturer Lecturing Biology component

of Science Foundation

Programme (SFP), & some 1st

year Biology, supervising

postgraduates

University of Natal 1998-2001 Senior Lecturer As below and supervising

postgraduates

University of Natal 1994-1998 Lecturer Lecturing Biology component

of Science Foundation

Programme (SFP), & some 1st

year Biology.

Co-ordinating Biology SFP

University of

Durban-Westville

1993-1994 Part-time lecturer, Zoology &

Physiology Departments

Academic development

Additional Affiliation:

Centre for Invasion Biology, Stellenbosch University (2013-current).

Professional Membership:

Registered Professional Natural Scientist- the South African Council for

Natural Scientific Professions.

Life member of the Southern African Zoological Society. Honorary Treasurer

of the Zoological Society of Southern Africa 1997-to present.

Member of the Natal Midlands Bird Club, & BirdLife.

Member of the Herpetological Association of Africa.

Member and on executive committee of the Cape Parrot Working Group,

currently chairperson.

Member of South African Journal of Higher Education

Centre for Invasion Biology core team membership (2013- to present)

Elected Fellow of the International Ornithologists’ Union (IOU) (August 2014-

to present)- in recognition of “ the excellence of her scientific work, and of her

involvement in promoting ornithology”.

Board of Trustees KZN Conservancies Association (Sept 2015-

present)

Elected to the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAF) 2016

Research Grants, Awards and Donations.

Year

1995 University of Natal Research Fund - category Y

1995-present NRF- category C2

1996 World Parrot Trust support for Cape Parrot Research.

1996 NRF financial support


1998-2015 Mazda Wildlife doublecab for research use


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1999 Mail & Guardian Green Trust Award - Runner-up for Natural

Resources Section.


2000 Production of 1000 Cape Parrot posters for distribution to schools and

bird clubs sponsored by BirdLife.



2002 Wildlands Trust award 2002 of R34000 for Cape Parrot Research

2002 Production of 1000 Cape Parrot posters for distribution to schools and

bird clubs sponsored by BirdLife

2002 Natal Ornithological Trust support of R10000 for Cape Parrot Research


2003-2004 Financial support from American Aviculturists

2003 University award for top 10 researchers


2004-2006 WWF funding for oribi research-R280 000



2005-2007 Funding for Human Capacity Building from DWAF R257 000 pa



2005-present Bateleur Aerial Support Surveys

2006 R20000 UK Parrot Society

2006 Lecturer of the year award by students of the Faculty of Science &

Agriculture, UKZN.


2007 World Parrot Trust funding for parrot research-R35 000


2008 R100000 from Mrs Faikney for a co-ordinator for Cape Parrot Working

Group


2009 Funding for Human Capacity Building from DWAF R257 000 pa

2009-2011 R499 000 equivalent from the Hans Hoheisen Trust for crocodile

research- transmitters

2009 University award for top 30 researchers, Top female researcher

2010-2012 Funding for Human Capacity Building from DWAF R257 000 pa


2010 Two awards from Elsevier for having two papers in the top 10 Cited

2000-2010 in Journal of Thermal Biology


2012-2013 Water Research Commission for research on Nile Crocodiles


2013 Thomson Reuters list of highly cited researchers

2013 University award for top 10 researchers in 2012, Top female researcher

2014 Hans Hoheisen Trust R300000 for research

2014 Tiwonge Mzumara (PhD student) was a joint winner of the

International Young Conservationist Award

2014 University award for top 10 researchers in 2013

2014 Ford Wildlife Foundation donation of a 4x4 research vehicle.

2015 University award for top 10 researchers, Top female researcher in 2014

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2015 Received NRF SARCHI chair (Sept)

2015 Awarded Golden Key Honorary Membership and award after

nomination by UKZN students

2016 Awarded UKZN Fellowship

2016 Hans Hoheisen Trust R350000 for research


2016 Elected to the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAF)

2017 Nominee: 2016/2017 NSTF-South32 Categories: Lifetime; Capacity

development; GreenMatter

2017 Winner: 2016/2017 NSTF-South32 Category Capacity development

2017 Awarded the Zoological Society of Southern Africa Gold Medal

2017 Nominee: South African Women in Science Awards; 2nd runner up

Distinguished Women Scientists

2017 Awarded SA-Canada Trilateral Chair


2017 Ford Wildlife Foundation donation of a 4x4 research vehicle.

University Committees including:

Date Committee

1994-2005 Science Foundation Programme

1994-present Board

2002-2006 Faculty Publicity Committee

2004-present Senate

2005-present Faculty representative on selection committees

2006, 2008, 2009,

2010

Faculty Exclusions & Appeals Committee.

2007-2009 School of Bio. & Cons. Sci. Planning & Resources Committee

2010 School of Bio. & Cons. Sci. Postgraduate & Research Committee:

Post-Graduate Co-ordinator PMB

2011- present UKZN Publications Review Committee Meeting

2011 UKZN Research Office “Paper Out” Workshop Mentor

2011-2014 UKZN College Retirement Panel

2017 UKZN Promotions Policy Review Committee

2017 UKZN Senior Awards Committee

Professional Councils Served On:

Date Affiliation Position

1997-present Zoological Society of Southern

Africa

Hon. Treasurer

2016-2020 BirdLife SA Honorary President of BirdLife

SA

2015-present Conservation KZN (KZNCA

Conservancies Association)

Trustee

1999-present Cape Parrot Working Group Executive Committee Member

Meeting convenor:


2015-2020 International Zoological Conference

Cape Town 2020

Executive Committee Member;

Treasurer

2015-2016 International Bat Symposium- Local Organising Committee;

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Durban, SA Executive Committee Member

2010-2015 6th Frugivore & Seed Dispersal

International Symposium-Alpine

Heath, SA

Chair Organising Committee

2009 ZSSA Local Committee Organising

Conference

Treasurer and sponsorship

2008-2016 Pan African Ornithological

Congress Committee

Scientific Chair

1998 International Ornithological

Conference, Durban

Student Co-ordinator, Local

Organising Committee

Editorial positions:


2018-present National Geographic Advisory Board Member- CRE

Reviewer Circle

2007-present African Journal of Ecology International Reviewer Panel for

The African Journal of Ecology

2002-present Ostrich (Journal) Book Editor; Advisory Board

2011- present Ibis (Journal) Associate Editor

2016-present Urban Ecosystems (Journal) Associate Editor

National panels and committees (non-NRF only)

2012-2014 Steering Committee to Water Research Commission K5/2185: Member (Downs).

2012-2014 Steering Committee to Water Research Commission K5/2186: Member (Downs).

2012 CHE Committee

2010-2013 KZN Rhodes Scholarship Selection, Committee member

Reviewer for Journal Submissions (more than 92 Journals) including:

Acta Academica, Acta Herpetologica; Acta Oecologia; Acta Ornithologica; Acta

Theriologica; Acta Zoologica Academiae Sciencarum Hungariace, Acta Zoologica

Cracoviensia; African Journal of Ecology; African Journal of Herpetology; African Journal of

Research in Mathematics, Science and Technology Education; African Zoology; Amphibia-

Reptilia; Animal Welfare; Animal Biology; Animal Conservation; Applied Herpetology;

Ardea; Auk; Auk- Ornithological Advances; Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education;

Austral Ecology; Biological Conservation; Biological Journal of the Linnean Society;

Biotropica; Bull. BOC; Botany; Canadian Journal of Zoology; Caribbean Journal of Science;

Chinese Birds; Comparative Biochemistry & Physiology; Condor; Conservation Biology;

Current Zoology; Earth Systems and Environmental Science; Ecography; Ecology;

Ecosphere; Emu; Environmental Conservation; Ethology; European Journal of Wildlife

Research; Functional Ecology; Global Change Biology; Global Ecology and Conservation;

Herpetologica; Herpetological Conservation and Biology; Herpetological Journal; Ibis;

Integrative Zoology; International Journal of Biodiversity and Conservation; International

Journal of Primatology; International Journal of Science Education; Journal of Animal

Science and Research; Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science; Journal of Applied

Geography; Journal of Biogeography; Journal of Chronobiology; Journal of Experimental

Biology; Journal of Comparative Physiology B; Journal of Herpetology; Journal of

Mammalogy, Journal of the National Museum (Bloemfontein); Journal of Ornithology;

Journal of Thermal Biology; Journal of Tropical Ecology; Journal of Zoology (London),

Koedoe, Mammalia; Mammal Research; Microscopy Research and Technique; Molecular

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Phylogenetics and Evolution; New Zealand Journal of Botany; Ornis Fennica,; Ostrich;

Perspectives in Education; Pest Management Science; Physiology and Behaviour;

Physiological and Biochemical Zoology; Plant Ecology; Plant Ecology & Diversity;

Perspectives in Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics; PLOS One; PLOS Biology;

Primates; Polar Research; Primate Conservation; Proceedings of the Royal Society B;

Raffles Bulletin of Zoology; Reproduction, Physiology and Behavior; Scientific Reports,

Nature; South African Journal of Botany; South African Journal of Science; South African

Journal of Wildlife Research; Southern African Review of Education; Landscape and Urban

Planning; Vulture News, Waterbirds; Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science;

Wilson Journal of Ornithology; Zoomorphology; Zoological Studies.

Project Evaluations for the Following Organisations:

Wildlife Conservation Society/New York Zoological Society; Israeli Science Foundation;

National Research Foundation (NRF) (ZA)- Grant Evaluation Panel member, NRF SARCHI

Chair Panel member, NRF Grantholders, NRF Post-Doctoral applications; Discipline-grouped

peer reviews of SA scholarly journals: Agricultural and related basic Life Sciences;

SANPAD; National Geographic; National Science Foundation (USA); Water Research

Commission (ZA); Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), (UK); Israel-USA

Binational Trust; French National Research Agency

Thesis examinations for:

Curtin University, Australia; Nelson Mandela University; Rhodes University; University of

Amsterdam, Netherlands; University of Cape Town; University of Fort Hare; University of

Johannesburg; University of KwaZulu-Natal; University of Konstanz, Germany; University of

Limpopo; University of Pretoria; University of Reunion, Reunion; University of Stellenbosch;

University of South Africa; University of Sydney, Australia; University of Witwatersrand.

Recognition from other institutions:

My recognition from other universities includes marking of theses, reviewing of papers, co-

supervision of theses, appointment as external examiner, and presentation of seminars. At

local and international conferences, I have chaired sessions. I presented a plenary at the 2010

Frugivore and Seed Dispersal Conference, Montpelier, France. I presented a plenary at the

Rhodes University Colloquium on Science Teaching in Higher Education in May 2013, and I

was a keynote speaker at the ZSSA conference in 2013. I have been an external on selection

panels for the Durban Natural History Museum.

External Examiner

Date Institution & Course

2017-present UKZN: 2nd yr Vertebrate courses Biol 222

2010-present Water Sisulu University, 3rd yr Behaviour & Physiology course

2011-2013 Rhodes University: 2nd yr, 3rd yr and Honours courses Zoology & Marine Biology

2000-2008 Durban Institute of Technology, Dept. Envirotourism, 2nd & 3rd yr Biology courses

2003-2008 UKZN, Faculty of Education, ACE Biology

2004-2005;

2008

UKZN, Durban & Westville campuses, 1st yr Biology

2003-2016 UKZN, Westville campus, Introductory Biology for Health Sciences

1997-1999 University of Natal, Durban, Biology

1997-2001 South African College for Open learning, Pietermaritzburg, Biology

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SUMMARY OF RESEARCH INTERESTS

Inter-disciplinary including the physiology, behaviour, ecology and conservation of southern

African terrestrial vertebrates. Particular aspects relate to:

Ecosystem health in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, South Africa, including

conservation, general biology, effect of changing land use (including urban ecology)

and climate change on fish, herps, birds, and mammals. Species studied include: Cape

Parrots, bushbuck, oribi, pelicans, Nile crocodiles, fruit bats, raptors, Cape vultures,

small carnivores and feral cats.

Ecophysiology-Vertebrate response to food availability in unpredictable

environments- implications for their ecophysiology and conservation. Energy and

water turnover of nectarivores, herbivores and frugivores. Digestive constraints. Diet

switching. Nutritional and physiological effects of secondary compounds. Thermal

physiology.

Science education-Problems experienced Life Science students. Development of

appropriate teaching strategies to address these. Scientific Method. Human capacity

development.

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS

Provisionally Accepted Peer-reviewed Articles (Minor revision required and/ resubmitted)

1. Wakelin, J., Wilson, A-L., Downs, C.T. & Hill, T.R. The impact of habitat transformation

on aerial insect biomass and diversity: implications for the distribution of Blue Swallows

in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Provisionally accepted Ostrich.

2. Mhlanga, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T., Madiri, T.H. & Downs, C.T. Spotted hyena (Crocuta

crocuta) habitat use across a land-use gradient in western Zimbabwe. Provisionally

accepted African Journal of Ecology

3. Senoge, N. & Downs, C.T. Use of communal roost counts for population estimates of the

invasive common myna in urban Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.

4. Drabik-Hamshare, M. & Downs, C.T. Walking in the moonlight: nocturnal activity in

leopard tortoises. Provisionally accepted Behavioural Processes

5. Jacobs, F., Weyl, O., Khaebeb, F.H., Hay, C.J., Naesje, T.F., O’Brien, G., & Downs, C.T.

The status of African tigerfish Hydrocynus vittatus (Castelnau, 1861): A review of 17

years of monitoring in Namibia. Provisionally accepted African Journal of Aquatic

Science

6. McPherson, S.C., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. Home range of a large eagle in a suburban

landscape: Crowned Eagles in the Durban Metropolitan Greenspace System, South Africa.

Provisionally accepted Journal of Raptor Research

7. Mhlanga, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. Incentives matter: the influence of

settlement type and land-use on public attitudes towards the spotted hyena (Crocuta

crocuta) in Zimbabwe. Provisionally accepted African Journal of Wildlife Research

8. Martens F.R., Pfeiffer M.B., Downs C.T., & Venter, J.A. Post-fledging movement and

spatial ecology of the endangered Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres). Provisionally

accepted Journal of Ornithology

9. Vezi, M., Downs, C.T., Wepener, V., & O’Brien, G. Response of zooplankton

communities to altered water quality and seasonal flow changes in selected river

dominated estuaries in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Provisionally accepted International

Review of Hydrobiology

10. Thatcher, H., Downs, C.T. & Koyama, N.F. Ranging patterns of urban vervet monkeys

are influenced by anthropogenic factors. Provisionally accepted American Journal of

Primatology

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11. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. The influence of

landscape-scale metrics in determining mammalian taxonomic and functional diversity

within a mixed land-use mosaic. Provisionally accepted Ecological Indicators

Published Peer-reviewed Articles

12. Ezat, M, Fritsch, C., Downs, CT. 2018. Use of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (Drone) to

survey Nile crocodile populations: A case study at Lake Nyamithi, Ndumo Game Reserve,

South Africa. Biological Conservation in press

13. Pillay, K., Streicher, J. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Home range and habitat use of feral cats in

an urban mosaic in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Urban Ecosystems

in press

14. Buchmann, E. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Ostrich, Southern Ostrich or Common Ostrich? The

'eternal vexed question' of English bird names and name changes in southern Africa

through eight editions of Roberts field guides, 1940-2016. Ostrich in press

15. Ehlers Smith, D., Xi, S., Ehlers Smith, Y., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T., & Downs, C.T. 2018.

Patterns of avian diversity across a decreasing patch-size gradient in a critically

endangered sub-tropical forest system. Journal of Biogeography in press

16. Hart, L., Wreford, E., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Hunting flight speeds of five

southern African raptors. Ostrich in press

17. Mzumara, T., Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Feeding ecology of Lilian’s lovebird

Agapornis lilianae in Liwonde National Park, Malawi. Ostrich in press

18. Ramesh, T. Downs, C.T. & O’Brien, G. 2018. Movement response of Orange-Vaal

largemouth yellowfish (Labeobarbus kimberleyensis) to water quality and habitat features

in the Vaal River, South Africa. Environmental Biology of Fishes DOI 10.1007/s10641-

018-0754-y

19. Van der Meer, T., McPherson, S. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Temporal changes in prey

composition and biomass delivery to African Crowned Eagle nestlings in urban areas of

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Ostrich in press.

20. Kheswa, E.Z., Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Habitat use by honey badgers

and the influence of predators in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. Mammalian

Biology 90: 22-29.

21. Widdows, C. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Genets in the city: Community observations and

perceptions of large-spotted genets in an urban environment. Urban Ecosystems

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11252-017-0722-x

22. Wakelin, J., Oellermann, C.G., Wilson, A-L., Downs, C.T. & Hill, T.R. 2018. Habitat use

of the critically endangered Blue Swallow in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Bothalia in

press

23. Mhlanga, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T., Morengosi, E. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Comparison of

spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) prey in two protected wildlife landuse types, a hunting

area and a nonhunting area, in western Zimbabwe. African Journal of Ecology DOI:

10.1111/aje.12499

24. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Forest habitats in a

mixed urban-agriculture mosaic landscape: patterns of mammal occupancy. Landscape

Ecology 33: 59-76. https://doi.org/10.1007/s1098. Online in 2017

25. Patterson, L., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Factors affecting presence of vervet monkey

troops in a suburban matrix in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Landscape & Urban

Planning 169: 220-228. (online in 2017)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2017.09.016

26. Dlamini, P., Zacharides, C. & Downs, C.T. 2018. The effect of frugivorous birds on seed

dispersal and germination of the invasive Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius)

https://doi.org/10.1007/s1098

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and Indian laurel (Litsea glutinosa). South African Journal of Botany 114: 61-68.

Online in 2017. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2017.10.009

27. Kalle, R., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2018. When and where to move: Dynamic

occupancy models explain the range dynamics of a food nomadic bird under climate and

land cover change. Global Change Biology 24:e27-e29 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13861 online

in 2017

28. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Seasonal habitat requirements of

Lemon Dove (Aplopelia larvata) in Coastal Forest: Camera-trap surveys of a reclusive

species. African Zoology 52: 199-207. https://doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2017.1388193

29. Jacobs, F., Weyl, O.L.F., Libala, N.S., O’Brien, G.C., Downs, C.T. 2017. Retention of

plastic-tipped dart tags in African tigerfish Hydrocynus vittatus (Castelnau 1861). African

Journal of Aquatic Science 42: 299-301. DOI: 10.2989/16085914.2017.1392283

30. Thompson, L. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Altitudinal variation in metabolic parameters of a

small Afrotropical bird. Comparative Biochemistry & Physiology Part A 212: 88-96.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cbpa.2017.07.015

31. Combrink, L., Combrink, H., Botha, A. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Habitat structure and

diversity influence the reproductive output of an endangered large cavity-nesting bird, the

Southern Ground-hornbill. Koedoe 59: nov. 2017. Available at:

http://www.koedoe.co.za/index.php/koedoe/article/view/1438/2084

32. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y., Ramesh, T., & Downs, C.T 2017. Camera-trap data

elucidate habitat requirements and conservation threats to an endangered forest specialist,

the Spotted Ground Thrush (Zoothera guttata). Forest Ecology and Management 400:

523-530. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2017.06.045

33. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. The importance of

microhabitat structure in maintaining forest mammal diversity in a mixed land-use

mosaic. Biodiversity and Conservation 26: 2361-2382 http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10531-

017-1360-6

34. Thompson, L., Davies, J., Botha, A., Bildstein, K., Murn, C. & Downs, C.T. 2017.

Visitors to nests of Hooded Vultures Necrosyrtes monachus in north-eastern South Africa.

Ostrich 88: 155-162. http://dx.doi.org/10.2989/00306525.2017.1316786

35. Chibesa, M., Taylor, B., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Home range and habitat use of

Trumpeter Hornbills Bycanistes bucinator in an urban–forest mosaic, Eshowe, South

Africa. Ostrich 88: 225-233. http://dx.doi.org/10.2989/00306525.2017.1292561

36. Drabik-Hamshare, M & Downs, C.T. 2017. Aspects of the home range ecology of the

leopard tortoise in the semi-arid central Karoo: an area threatened with fracking. Journal

of Arid Environments 144: 31-41. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jaridenv.2017.04.001

37. Thompson, L., Davies, J., Bildstein, K., & Downs, C.T. 2017. Removal (and attempted

removal) of material from a Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus nest by a starling and

a Hooded Vulture. Ostrich 88: 183-187.

http://dx.doi.org/10.2989/00306525.2017.1316786

38. Coetzer, W.R., Downs, C.T., Perrin, M.R. & Willows-Munro, S. 2017. Testing of

microsatellite multiplexes for individual identification of Cape parrots (Poicephalus

robustus): paternity testing and monitoring trade. PeerJ 5: e2900.

http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.2900

39. Combrink, L., Combrink, H., Botha, A. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Nest temperature

fluctuations in a cavity nester, the southern ground-hornbill. Journal of Thermal Biology

66: 21-26. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2017.03.003

40. Chibesa, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Factors determining the occupancy of trumpeter

hornbills in urban-forest mosaics of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Urban Ecosystems

20: 1027-1034. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11252-017-0656-3

http://dx.doi.org/10.2989/00306525.2017.1316786

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2017.03.003

10

41. Wreford, E., Hart, L., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. Black sparrowhawk (Accipiter

melanoleucus) breeding behaviour and reproductive success in KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. Ostrich 88: 287-290. http://dx.doi.org/10.2989/00306525.2017.1307875

42. Champion, G. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Status of Nile crocodile population in Pongolapoort

Dam after river impoundment. African Zoology 52: 55-63.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2016.1238321

43. Drabik-Hamshare, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Movement of leopard tortoises in response to

environmental and climatic variables in a semi-arid environment. Movement Ecology 5:

5. http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40462-017-0096-y

44. Wilson, AL, Bowker, M., Shuttleworth, A. & Downs C.T. 2017. Characteristics of snags

and forest structure in southern mistbelt forests of the Amatole Region, South Africa.

African Journal of Ecology 55: 518-529. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/aje.12382

45. McPherson, S.C., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Gender related morphometric

differences in mature and nestling Crowned Eagles, with comments on ringing of eagle

nestlings in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Ostrich 88: 195-200.

http://dx.doi.org/10.2989/00306525.2016.1259185

46. Kalle, R., Combrink, L., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Re-establishing the pecking

order: Ensemble models reliably predict suitable habitats for the reintroduction of red-

billed oxpeckers. Ecology & Evolution 7: 1974-1983. http://dx.doi.org/

10.1002/ece3.2787

47. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R., Rosenlund, H. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Low leopard populations in

protected areas of Maputaland: a consequence of poaching, habitat condition, abundance

of prey and a top predator. Ecology & Evolution 7: 1964-1973.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ece3.2771

48. Zungu, M.M.& Downs, C.T. 2017. Effects of ethanol on fruit selection by frugivorous

birds. African Zoology 52: 69-72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2016.1276856

49. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Observations of microtrash ingestion in

Cape Vultures in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. African Zoology 52: 65-67.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2016.1270172

50. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Indian Ocean coastal thicket is

of high conservation value for preserving taxonomic and functional diversity of forest-

dependent bird communities in a landscape of restricted forest availability. Forest

Ecology and Management 390: 157-165 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2017.01.034

51. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R., Rosenlund, H. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Staying safe from top

predators: patterns of co-occurrence and inter-predator interactions. Behavioral Ecology

and Sociobiology 71: 41. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00265-017-2271-y

52. Combrink, X., Warner, J. & Downs C.T. 2017. Nest-site selection, nesting behaviour and

spatial ecology of female Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in South Africa.

Behavioural Processes 135: 101-112. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.beproc.2016.12.006

53. Hart, L., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2017. Keeping it regular: Development of

thermoregulation in four tropical seabird species. Journal of Thermal Biology 64: 19-25.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2016.12.003. Online 2016

54. Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. 2017. The past and present nesting ecology of Nile

crocodiles in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa: Reason for concern? Journal of

Herpetology 51: 19-26. http://dx.doi.org/10.1670/13-200

55. Patterson, L., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2017. A citizen science survey: perceptions and

attitudes of urban residents towards vervet monkeys. Urban Ecosystems 20: 617-628.

DOI 10.1007/s11252-016-0619-0 online in 2016

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2017.01.034

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2016.12.003.%20Online%202016

11

56. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Space use in a South African agriculture

landscape by the caracal (Caracal caracal). European Journal of Wildlife Research 63:

11. DOI: 10.1007/s10344-016-1072-3

57. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Cliff characteristics, neighbour

requirements and breeding success of the colonial Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres. Ibis

159: 26-37.

58. Maseko, M., Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016 Response of crested guinea-fowl

(Guttera edouardi), a forest specialist, to spatial variation in land use in iSimangaliso

Wetland Park, South Africa. Journal of Ornithology DOI 10.1007/s10336-016-1406-7

59. Combrink, X., Warner, J. & Downs C.T. 2016. Nest predation and maternal care in the

Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) at Lake St Lucia, South Africa. Behavioural

Processes 133: 31-36.

60. Warner, J. Combrink, X., Calverley, P., Champion, G. & Downs, C.T. 2016.

Morphometrics, sex ratio, and sexual size dimorphism of the Nile crocodile, Crocodylus

niloticus, at its southern range limit in South Africa. Zoomorphology 135: 511-521.

61. Hart, L., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2016. Sitting in the sun: Nest microhabitat affects

incubation temperatures in seabirds. Journal of Thermal Biology 60: 149-154.

62. Zungu, M.M. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Digestive efficiencies of Cape white-eyes (Zosterops

virens), red-winged starlings (Onychognathus morio) and speckled mousebirds (Colius

striatus) on equicaloric glucose and sucrose artificial fruit diets. Comparative

Biochemistry & Physiology A 199: 28-37.

63. Thompson, L., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2016 Thermal acclimation in a small

afrotropical bird. Behavioural Processes 128: 113-118.

64. Mokotjomela, T., Downs, C.T., Esler, K., & Knight, J. 2016. Seed dispersal effectiveness:

a comparison of four bird species feeding on seeds of invasive Acacia cyclops in South

Africa. South African Journal of Botany 105: 259-263.

65. Warner, J. Combrink, X., Myburgh, J. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Blood lead concentrations in

free-ranging Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from South Africa. Ecotoxicology 25:

950-958. DOI: 10.1007/s10646-016-1652-8

66. Mzumara, T., Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Comparative performance of four survey

methods for assessing Lilian’s Lovebird abundance in Liwonde National Park, Malawi.

Ostrich 87: 247-253.

67. Hart, L., Gane, J., Olivier, I. Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2016. A helping hand: Artificial

nest site provision increases breeding success of a tropical seabird. African Journal of

Marine Science DOI: 10.2989/1814232X.2016.1186114

68. Singh, P. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Hadeda Ibis (Bostrychia hagedash) urban nesting and

roosting sites. Urban Ecosystems 19: 1295–1305. DOI: 10.1007/s11252-016-0541-5.

69. Singh, P. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Hadedas in the hood: Hadeda Ibis activity in suburban

neighbourhoods of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Urban Ecosystems

19: 1283–1293. DOI: 10.1007/s11252-016-0540-6

70. Widdows, C. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Urban roost temperatures of large-spotted-genets: The

effect of anthropogenic structures. Journal of Thermal Biology 57: 66-71.

71. Mzumara, T., Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Characteristics of roost cavities used by

Lilian's Lovebird Agapornis lilianae in Liwonde National Park, Malawi. African Zoology

51:21-28. DOI:10.1080/15627020.2015.1124737.

72. Patterson, L., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Predation of artificial bird nests in suburban

gardens of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Urban Ecosystems 19: 615–630. DOI

10.1007/s11252-016-0526-4.

12

73. Hart, L., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2016. Hot footing eggs: Thermal imaging reveals foot

mediated incubation in White-Tailed Tropicbirds, Phaethon lepturus. Journal of

Ornithology 157: 635-640. DOI 10.1007/s10336-015-1323-1

74. Humphries, B., Ramesh, T., Hill, T. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Habitat use and home range of

black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) on farmlands in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal,

South Africa. African Zoology 51: 37-45. DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2015.1128356.

75. Cockburn, J., Rouget, M., Slotow, R., Roberts, D., Boon, R., Douwes, E., O'Donoghue, S.,

Downs, C., Mukherjee, S., Musakwa, W., Mutanga, O., Mwabvu, T., Odindi, J., Odindo,

A., Procheş, Ş., Ramdhani, S., Ray-Mukherjee, J., Naidoo, S., Schoeman, C., Smit, A.,

Wale, E., & Willows-Munro, S. 2016. How to build science-action partnerships for local

land use planning and management: Lessons from Durban, South Africa. Ecology and

Society 21: 28. DOI: 10.5751/ES-08109-210128

76. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R., Rosenlund, H. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Native habitat and Protected

Area size matters: Preserving mammalian assemblages in the Maputaland Conservation

Unit of South Africa. Forest Ecology and Management 360: 20-29.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2015.10.005

77. McPherson, S., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Crowned Eagle nest sites in an urban

landscape: Requirements of a large eagle in the Durban Metropolitan Open Space

System. Landscape and Urban Planning 146: 43-50.

78. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Predictors of mammal species richness in

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Ecological Indicators 60: 385-393. DOI :

10.1016/j.ecolind.2015.07.011 online in mid 2015

79. Mzumara, T., Perrin, M.R., & Downs, C.T. 2016. The drinking habits of the Lilian's

lovebird and incidents of poisoning at waterholes. African Journal of Ecology 54: 289-

298. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aje.12216/abstract online in 2015

80. Humphries, B. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Seasonal diet of black-backed jackal

(Canis mesomelas) on farmlands in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa.

Mammalia 80: 405–412. DOI 10.1515/mammalia-2014-0103.online in 2015

81. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Spatiotemporal variation in resource selection

of servals: insights from a landscape under heavy land-use transformation. Journal of

Mammalogy 97. doi: 10.1093/jmammal/gyv201. Online in 2015

82. McPherson, S., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Diet of the crowned eagle

(Stephanoaetus coronatus) in an urban landscape: potential for human-wildlife conflict?

Urban Ecosystems 19: 383-396. DOI 10.1007/s11252-015-0500-6. online in 2015

83. Pillay, K., Wilson, A-L., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Digestive parameters and

energy assimilation of Cape porcupine on economically important crops. African

Zoology 50: 307-312.

84. Thabethe, V., Wilson, A.L., Hart, L. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Digestive efficiency of

indigenous and invasive avian species fed fruit of invasive alien plants in South Africa.

African Zoology 50: 293-297.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15627020.2015.1106924

85. Downs, C.T. & Wilson, A.L. 2015. Shifting to more interactive tutorial and practical skills

based mode: experiences of a first year Biology course in South Africa. International

Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education 27: 261-274.

86. Humphries, B., Hill, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Landowners’ perspectives of black-backed

jackals (Canis mesomelas) on farmlands in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. African

Journal of Ecology 53: 540-549.

87. Magudu, K. & Downs, C.T. 2015. The relative abundance of invasive House Sparrows

(Passer domesticus) in an urban environment in South Africa is determined by land use.

African Journal of Wildlife Research 45:354-359.

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aje.12216/abstract

13

88. Coetzer, W.R., Downs, C.T., Perrin, M.R. & Willows-Munro, S. 2015. Molecular

systematics of the Cape Parrot (Poicephalus robustus): implications for taxonomy and

conservation. PLoS One 10. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133376

89. Wilson, A-L & Downs, C.T. 2015. Effect of light interference and supplemental

melatonin on body mass, food intake and cortisol stress levels in a small Southern African

rodent. Biological Rhythms 46: 929-939 Doi 10.1080/09291016.2015.1066546

90. Thabethe, V., Wilson, A.L., Hart, L. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Ingestion by an invasive

parakeet species reduces germination success of invasive alien plants relative to ingestion

by indigenous turaco species in South Africa. Biological Invasions 17: 3029-3039 DOI

10.1007/s10530-015-0932-1

91. Downs, C.T., Brown, M., Hart, L. & Symes, C.T. 2015. Review of documented Beak and

Feather Disease Virus cases in wild Cape Parrots in South Africa over the last twenty

years. Journal of Ornithology 156: 867-875 doi 10.1007/s10336-015-1258-6

92. Thompson, L., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Seasonal metabolic variation over two

years in an Afrotropical passerine bird. Journal of Thermal Biology 52 : 58-66.

93. Thompson, L., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Circannual rhythm of resting metabolic

rate of a small Afrotropical bird. Journal of Thermal Biology 51: 119-125.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2015.04003

94. Mokotjomela, T.M., Hoffmann, J.H. & Downs, C.T. 2015. The potential for birds to

disperse the seeds of Acacia cyclops, an invasive alien plant in South Africa. Ibis 157:

449-458. DOI 10.1111/ibi.12260

95. Thompson, L., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2015. The potential effects of climate change-

associated temperature increases on the metabolic rate of a small Afrotropical bird.

Journal of Experimental Biology 218:1504-1512 doi:10.1242/jeb.116509

96. Widdows, C., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015 Factors affecting the distribution of large

spotted genets (Genetta tigrina) in an urban environment in South Africa. Urban

Ecosystems 18: 1401-1413. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11252-015-0449-5

97. Widdows, C. & Downs, C.T. 2015. A genet drive-through: Are large spotted genets using

urban areas for “fast food”? A dietary analysis. Urban Ecosystems 18:907–920. DOI

10.1007/s11252-015-0438-8

98. Downs, C. T., Awuah, A., Jordaan, M., Magagula, L., Mkhize, T., Paine, C., Raymond-

Bourret, E. & Hart, L. 2015. Too hot to sleep? Sleep behaviour and surface body

temperature of Wahlberg's epauletted fruit bat. PLOS One 10(3): e0119419.

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0119419.

99. Thompson, L.J., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2015. The effects of long-term captivity on

the metabolic parameters of a small Afrotropical bird. Journal of Comparative

Physiology and Biochemistry 185: 343-354. DOI: 10.1007/s00360-015-0888-6

100. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Foraging range and habitat use of adult

Cape Vultures Gyps coprotheres in communal farmland in South Africa. Koedoe 57.

DOI : 10.4102/koedoe.v57i1.1240.

101. Grieve, G. & Downs, C.T. 2015. A checklist of the plants of the forests and associated

grasslands in the Weza district, southern KwaZulu-Natal and a review of their status in the

Red Data List. Koedoe 57. DOI : 10.4102/koedoe.v57i1.1237.

102. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Impact of land use on occupancy and abundance of

terrestrial mammals in the Drakensberg Midlands, South Africa. Journal of Nature

Conservation 23:9-18. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2014.12.001

103. Volampeno, M.S.N., Randriatahina, G.H., Wilson, A.L., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2015.

A preliminary population viability analysis of the critically endangered blue-eyed black

lemur (Eulemur flavifrons). African Journal of Ecology 53: 413-418. doi:

10.1111/aje.12213

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2015.04003

14

104. Zungu, M.M. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Effects of tannins on fruit selection in three

southern African frugivorous birds. Behavioural Processes 111: 84-89.

105. Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Movement and home range of Nile crocodiles in

Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa. Koedoe 57. DOI : 10.4102/koedoe.v57i1.1234

106. Wilson, A-L., Shuttleworth, A. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Assimilation efficiency of Red-

winged Starlings feeding on Strelitzia nicolai seeds’ woolly aril pulp. Journal of

Ornithology 156:323-326. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10336-014-1111-3 online in 2014

107. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Sex-specific indicators of landscape use by

servals: Consequences of living in fragmented landscapes. Ecological Indicators 52: 8-

15.

108. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Identifying anthropogenic threats to Cape

Vultures Gyps coprotheres using community perceptions in communal farmland, Eastern

Cape Province, South Africa. Bird Conservation International 25 : 353-365. DOI:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0959270914000148. Online in 2014

109. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Diet of serval (Leptailurus serval) on farmlands in

the Drakensberg Midlands, South Africa. Mammalia 79:399-407 DOI

10.1515/mammalia-2014-0053. Online in 2014.

110. Downs, C.T., Pfeiffer, M., & Hart, L. 2014. Fifteen years of annual Cape Parrots

(Poicephalus robustus) censuses: current population trends and conservation

contributions. Ostrich 85: 273-280.

111. Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Population status of Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game

Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (1971 - 2012). Herpetologica 70: 417-425.

112. Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Habitat use by Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game

Reserve, South Africa: a naturally patchy environment. Herpetologica 70: 426-438.

113. Mzumara, T.I, Perrin, M.R., & Downs, C.T. 2014. Distribution of Lilian’s Lovebirds

in Malawi. Ostrich 85: 267-272. DOI:10.2989/00306525.2014.963187

114. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Modelling large spotted genet (Genetta tigrina) and

slender mongoose (Galerella sanguinea) occupancy in a heterogeneous landscape of

South Africa. Mammalian Biology 79: 331-337.

115. Hart, L. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Public surveys, of rose-ringed parakeets Psittacula

krameri, in the Durban metropolitan area, South Africa. African Zoology 49: 283-289.

http://dx.doi.org/10.3377/004.049.0207

116. Rollinson, D., Coleman, J., & Downs, C.T. 2014. Roost temperature and fidelity of

Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit, Epomophorus wahlbergi, bat in an urban environment.


117. Downs, C.T., Harebottle, D., Dodman, T., Ndiayec, A., Barnard, P., Huntley, B., Ogada,

D., Botha, A., & Ng'weno, F. 2014. Birds in a Changing Environment: Report on the 13th

Pan-African Ornithological Congress in Arusha, Tanzania. Ostrich 85(1): iii-vi.

118. Mqokeli, B.R. & Downs, C.T. 2014 Is protein composition in the diet of Wahlberg’s

epauletted fruit bat important? African Zoology 49:161-166.

119. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Land use factors determining occurrence of Red-

necked Spurfowl (Pternistis afer) in the Drakensberg Midlands, South Africa. Journal of

Ornithology 155: 471-480 doi. 10.1007/s10336-013-1028-2

120. Hart, L., Bowker, M., Tarboton, W. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Species composition,

distribution and habitat types of Odonata in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa and the associated conservation implications. PLoS ONE 9(3):

e92588. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092588

121. Witteveen, M., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Does sugar content matter? Blood

plasma glucose levels in two avian nectarivores: the generalist Cape White-eye Zosterops

http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0959270914000148

15

virens and the specialist Amethyst Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystina. Comparative

Biochemistry & Physiology Part A 167:40-44.

122. Crawford RJM, Randall RM, Whittington PA, Waller L, Dyer BM, Allan D, Fox C,

Martin AP, Upfold L, Visagie J, Bachoo S, Bowker M, Downs CT, Fox R, Huisamen J,

Makhado AB, Ryan PG, Taylor RH, Turpie JK. 2013. South Africa's coastal-breeding

white-breasted cormorants: population, trends, breeding season and movements, and diet.

African Journal of Marine Science 35 : 473-490

123. Rollinson, D., Coleman, J., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Seasonal differences in foraging

dynamics, habitat use and home range size of Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat in an urban

environment. African Zoology 48:340-350.

124. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Impact of farmland use on population density and

activity patterns of serval in South Africa. Journal of Mammalogy 94:1460–1470.

125. Wakelin, J.,Wilson, A-L & Downs, C.T. 2013. Ground cavity nest temperatures and

their relevance to Blue Swallow Hirundo atrocaerulea conservation. Ostrich 84:1-7.

126. Thabethe, V., Thompson, L., Jordaan, L., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Seasonal

effects in the thermoregulation of invasive rose-ringed parakeets (Psittacula krameri).

Journal of Thermal Biology 38:553-559.

127. Hart, L., Grieve, G., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Fruiting phenology and implications of fruit

availability in the fragmented Ingeli Forest Complex, KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. South African Journal of Botany 88:296-305.

128. Chama, L., Berens, D.G., Downs, C.T. & Farwig, N. 2013. Do frugivores enhance

germination success of plant species? An experimental approach. South African Journal

of Botany 88:23-27

129. Volampeno, M.S.N, Randriatahina, G., Downs, C.T. 2013. Structure and composition of

Ankarafa Forest, Sahamalaza-Iles Radama National Park Madagascar: implications for the

frugivorous endemic blue-eyed black lemur (Eulemur flavifrons). South African Journal

of Wildlife Research 43: 91-102. 130. Downs, CT, Wimberger, K. & Wilson, A-L. 2013. No effects of huddling on core body

temperature in Rock Hyrax, Procavia capensis. African Zoology 48:173-176.

131. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Seasonal and daily activity patterns of leopard

tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis Bell 1828) on farmland in the Nama Karoo, South Africa.


132. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R., Sankar, K., Qureshi, Q., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Aspects of

breeding biology of chital (Axis axis) and sambar (Rusa unicolor) in the Western Ghats.

Acta Ethologica 16: 147-156.

133. McMaster, M.K. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Thermal variability in body temperature in a

large ectotherm: Are cloacal temperatures good indicators of tortoise body temperature?

Journal of Thermal Biology 38: 163-168.

134. McMaster, M.K. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Thermoregulation in leopard tortoises in the

Nama-Karoo: The importance behaviour and core body temperatures. Journal of

Thermal Biology 38:178-185.

135. Chama, L., Berens, D.G., Downs, C.T. & Farwig, N. 2013. Habitat characteristics of

forest fragments determine specialisation of plant-frugivore networks in a mosaic forest

landscape. PLOS One 8:e54956

136. Zungu, M.M., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Seasonal thermoregulation in the

burrowing parrot (Cyanoliseus patagonus). Journal of Thermal Biology 38: 47-54.

137. Mqokeli, B.R. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Palate and lingual adaptations for frugivory and

nectarivory in Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi).

Zoomorphology 132:111-119.

138. Mqokeli, B.R. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Blood plasma glucose regulation in Wahlberg’s

epauletted fruit bat. African Zoology 47: 348-352. (only out in 2013)

16

139. Bizaare, L., Downs, C.T. & Coetzer T. 2012. Disaccharidase presence and activities in a

range of southern African frugivores. Ostrich 83:165-168.

140. Russell, C. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Effect of land use on the anuran species composition

in north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Applied Geography 35: 247-256.

141. Bowker, M.B. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Breeding of Large, Water-associated, Colonially

Nesting Birds of the North-eastern Region of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Waterbirds

35: 270-291.

142. Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2012. Is respirometry a standardized technique? A review of

measurement of avian resting metabolic rates. Journal of Thermal Biology 37: 531–536.

143. Coleman, J. & Downs, C.T. 2012. The sweet side of life: Sugar type and concentration

preference in Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit (Epomophorus wahlbergi). Comparative

Biochemistry and Physiology 162: 431-436 144. Jordaan, L.A., & Downs, C.T. 2012. Comparison of germination rates and fruit traits of

indigenous Solanum giganteum and invasive S. mauritianum in South Africa. South

African Journal of Botany 80: 13-20.

145. Jordaan, L.A., & Downs, C.T. 2012. Forbidden fruit: nutritional and morphological

traits of invasive and exotic fleshy-fruits in South Africa. Biotropica 44: 738-743.

146. Downs, C.T., Brown, M., & Zungu, M.M. 2012. Seasonal effects on thermoregulatory

abilities of the Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) in KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa. Journal of Thermal Biology 37: 144-150.

147. Downs, C.T., Mqokeli, B., & Singh, P. 2012. Sugar assimilation and digestive

efficiency in Wahlberg’s epaulette fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi). Comparative

Biochemistry and Physiology A 161: 344-348.

148. Jordaan, L.A., Johnson, S.D. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Wahlberg's Epauletted Fruit Bat

(Epomophorus wahlbergi) as a potential dispersal agent for fleshy-fruited invasive alien

plants: effects of handling behaviour on seed germination. Biological Invasions 14: 959-

968 DOI 10.1007/s10530-011-0131-7 (online in 2011)

149. Wilson, A-L., Downs, C.T. 2012. Fruit nutritional composition and non-nutritive traits

of indigenous South African tree species. South African Journal of Botany 78: 30-36.

(online in 2011)

150. Wilson, A-L., Downs, C.T. 2012. Knysna Turacos (Tauraco corythaix) do not improve

seed germination of ingested fruit of some indigenous South African tree species. South

African Journal of Botany 78: 55-62. (online in 2011)

151. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2012. African Red-winged Starlings prefer

hexose sugar solutions, but do not like them too sweet. Journal of Ornithology 153: 265-

272.

152. Wilson, A-L., Downs, C.T. 2012. Food intake rates, digestive efficiency, and transit

times of Knysna (Tauraco corythaix) turacos fed South African indigenous fruit. Journal

of Ornithology 153: 285-290.

153. Jordaan, L.A., Johnson, S.D. & Downs, C.T. 2011. Digestion of fruit of alien invasive

plants by three southern African frugivores. Ibis 153:863–867.

154. Jones, A.L. & Downs, C.T. 2011. Managing feral cats: how many are there on the

University of KwaZulu-Natal campuses and is sterilisation having an effect? Journal of

Applied Animal Welfare Science 14:304-320.

155. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2011. Covariation of flower traits and bird

pollinator assemblages among populations of Kniphofia linearifolia (Asphodelaceae).

Plant Systematics and Evolution 294:199–206.

156. Jordaan, L.A., Johnson, S.D. & Downs, C.T. 2011. The role of avian frugivores in

germination of seeds of fleshy-fruited invasive alien plants. Biological Invasions

13:1917–1930.

157. Wilson, A-L., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2011. Seasonal variation in metabolic rate of a

medium-sized frugivore, the Knysna Turaco (Tauraco corythaix). Journal of Thermal

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cbpa.2012.04.024

17

Biology 36: 167-172.

158. Volampeno, M.S.N, Masters, J., & Downs, C.T. 2011. Life history traits, maternal

behaviour and infant development of blue-eyed black lemurs (Eulemur flavifrons).

American Journal of Primatology 73: 474–484.

159. Wilson, A-L. & Downs, C.T. 2011. Digestive efficiency of Knysna and purple-crested

turacos fed varying concentrations of equicaloric and equimolar artificial fruit. Journal of

Experimental Biology 214: 607-612.

160. Volampeno, M.S.N, Masters, J., & Downs, C.T. 2011. Home range size in the blue-eyed

black lemur (Eulemur flavifrons): A comparison between dry and wet seasons.

Mammalian Biology 76: 157-164.

161. Wilson, A-L. & Downs, C.T. 2011. Food preferences of Knysna and purple-crested

turacos fed varying concentrations of equicaloric and equimolar artificial fruit. Journal of

Experimental Biology 214: 613-618.

162. Volampeno, M.S.N, Masters, J., & Downs, C.T. 2011. A population estimate of blue-

eyed black lemurs in Ankarafa Forest, Sahamalaza - Iles Radama National Park. Folia

Primatologica 81: 305-314.

163. Wilson, A-L. & Downs, C.T. 2011. The effect of seed packaging on digestion and food

preference by Purple-crested (Gallirex porphyreolophus) and Knysna Turacos (Tauraco

corythaix). Journal of Ornithology 152: 193-200.

164. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2010. Sugar preferences and digestive

efficiency in an opportunistic avian nectarivore, the Dark-capped Bulbul. Journal of

Ornithology. 151: 637-643.

165. Wimberger, K., & Downs, C.T. 2010. Annual intake trends of a large urban animal

rehabilitation centre in South Africa: a case study? Animal Welfare 19: 501-513.

166. Wimberger, K., Downs, C.T. & Boyes, S. 2010. A survey of wildlife rehabilitation in

South Africa: is there a need for greater regulation? Animal Welfare 19: 481-499.

167. Wellmann, A. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Nocturnal pectoral tuft display in the malachite

sunbird Nectarinia famosa. African Zoology 45: 342-347.

168. Coleman, J.C. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Does home range of the black-tailed tree rat

(Thallomys nigricauda Thomas 1882) change

with season along an aridity gradient? African Zoology 45: 177-188.

169. Bowker, M.B., Taylor, R. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Numbers and distribution of the Great

White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) and the Pink-backed Pelican (P. rufescens) in

north eastern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Ostrich 81: 179–188.

170. Coleman, J.C. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Characterising the thermal environment of small

mammalian endotherms: what should we be measuring, and how? Open Access Animal

Physiology 2: 47-59.

171. Wimberger, K., Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2010. Post-release success of two

rehabilitated vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) troops in KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. Folia Primatologica 81:96-108.

172. Lindsay, C.V., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2010. Seasonal variation in hematocrit levels

of amethyst sunbirds (Chalcomitra amethystina) over an altitudinal gradient. Journal of

Ornithology 151: 851-855.

173. Odendaal, T.C., Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2010. Sugar preferences and

digestive efficiency of the village weaver: a generalist avian pollinator of African plants.

Journal of Experimental Biology 213:2531-2535.

174. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2010. Sugar preferences of a generalist non-

passerine flower visitor, the African Speckled Mousebird. Auk 127: 781−786.

175. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2010. Pollination of the red-hot poker

Kniphofia laxiflora (Asphodelaceae) by sunbirds. South African Journal of Botany 76:

460-464.

18

176. Grey-Ross, R., Downs, C.T. & Kirkman, K. 2010. An assessment of illegal hunting on

farmland in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: implications for oribi Ourebia ourebi

conservation. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 40:43-52.

177. Tennent, J., Downs, C.T., Wald, D.M. & Watson, 2010. H. Public perceptions of feral

cats within an urban conservancy on a campus of the University of KwaZulu-Natal. South

African Journal of Wildlife Research 40: 16-26.

178. Lobban, K., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2010. Diel variations in plasma glucose

concentration in some South African avian frugivores. Emu 110:66-70.

179. Nzama, S., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2010. Seasonal variation in the metabolism-

temperature relation of House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. Journal of Thermal Biology 35: 100-104.

180. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2010. Concentration-dependent sugar

preferences of the Malachite Sunbird Nectarinia famosa. Auk 127: 151-155.

181. Downs, C.T., Wellmann, A. & Brown, M. 2010. Diel variations in blood glucose

concentrations in Malachite Sunbirds Nectarina famosa. Journal of Ornithology 151:

235-239.

182. Downs, C.T. 2010. Increasing equity and compensating historically academically

disadvantaged students at a tertiary level: benefits of a Science Foundation Programme as

a way of access. Teaching in Higher Education. 15: 97-107.

183. Coleman, J.C. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Daily rhythms of body temperature and activity in

free-living Black-tailed Tree Rats (Thallomys nigricauda) along an aridity gradient.

Physiology and Behaviour 99:22-32.

184. Downs, C.T. 2010. Is vacation apprenticeship of undergraduate Life Science students a

model for human capacity development in the Life Sciences? International Journal of

Science Education 32: 687-704.

185. Wimberger, K., Armstrong, A.J., and Downs CT. 2009. Can rehabilitated leopard

tortoises be successfully released into the wild? Chelonian Conservation and Biology

8:173-184.

186. Tennent, J.K., Downs, C.T., & Bodasing, M. 2009. Management Recommendations for

Feral Cat (Felis catus) Populations within an Urban Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal,

South Africa. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 39: 137-142.

187. Wimberger, K., Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2009. Two unsuccessful re-introduction

attempts of rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) into a reserve in the KwaZulu-Natal Province,

South Africa. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 39: 192-201.

188. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2009. Pollination of the red hot poker

Kniphofia caulescens by short-billed opportunistic avian nectarivores. South African

Journal of Botany 75: 707-712.

189. Coleman, J.C. & Downs, C.T. 2009. Variation in urine concentrating ability and water

balance of the Black-tailed Tree Rat Thallomys nigricauda, along an aridity gradient.

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, Part A 154: 508-513

190. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 2009. Home Range and Daily Movement of Leopard

Tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis) in the Nama-Karoo, South Africa. Journal of

Herpetology 43: 561-569

191. Chamane, S.C. & Downs, C.T. 2009. Seasonal effects on metabolism and

thermoregulation abilities of the Red-winged Starling (Onychognathus morio). Journal of

Thermal Biology 34: 337-341

192. Downs, C.T. 2009. Academic Performance and Pass Rates: Comparison of Three First

Year Life Science courses. South African Journal of Higher Education 23:656-673.

193. Grey-Ross, R., Downs, C.T. & Kirkman, K. 2009. Is use of translocation for the

conservation of subpopulations of oribi Ourebia ourebi effective? A case study. African

Journal of Ecology 47: 409-415.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2009.07.015

19

194. Grey, R., Downs, C.T. & Kirkman, K. 2009. Reintroduction failure of captive-bred oribi

Ourebia ourebi. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 39:34-38.

195. Grey-Ross, R., Downs, C.T. & Kirkman, K. 2009. Using housing estates as conservation

tools: A case study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Applied Geography. 29:371-376.

196. Downs, C., Boix-Hinzen, C & Brown, M. 2009. Development and functional

significance of dorsal air bags in nestlings of Monteiro’s Hornbill Tockus monteiri.

Ostrich 80: 53-58.

197. Wellmann, A.E. & Downs, CT. 2009. Sugar preferences and digestion by Cape White-

eyes, Zosterops virens, fed artificial fruit diets. African Zoology 44: 106-116.

198. Lindsay, C.V., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2009. Physiological variation in Amethyst

Sunbirds (Chalcomitra amethystina) over an altitudinal gradient in summer. Journal of

Thermal Biology 34: 190-199.

199. Lindsay, C.V., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2009. Physiological variation in Amethyst

Sunbirds (Chalcomitra amethystina) over an altitudinal gradient in winter. Journal of

Experimental Biology 212:483-493.

200. Wellmann, A. & Downs, C.T. 2009. A behavioural study of sleep patterns in the

malachite sunbird, Cape white-eye, and fantailed widowbird. Animal Behaviour 77: 61-

66.

201. Tennent, J.K. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Abundance, home range and behaviour of feral cats

in an urban conservancy where there is supplemental feeding: a case study. African

Zoology 43: 218-229.

202. Bush, N.G., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Effects of short-term acclimation on

thermoregulatory responses of the rock kestrel, Falco rupicolus. Journal of Thermal

Biology 33: 425-430.

203. Bush, N.G., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Seasonal effects on thermoregulatory

responses of the rock kestrel, Falco rupicolis. Journal of Thermal Biology 33: 404-412.

204. Brown, M., Downs, C.T. & Johnson, S.D. 2008. Sugar preferences of nectar feeding

birds- a comparison of experimental techniques. Journal of Avian Biology 39: 479-483.

205. Burton, S., Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Thermal Biology of African Lovebirds

and Australian Grass Parakeets. Journal of Thermal Biology 33: 355-362.

206. McMaster, M.K. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Digestive Parameters and Water Turnover of the

Leopard Tortoise. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A 151: 114-125.

207. Bowker, M.B. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Fluctuations in numbers of great white pelicans at

Lake St Lucia in response to changing water-levels. African Journal of Ecology 46: 282-

290.

208. Potgieter, D., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2008. Is commercial Protea farming causing a

change in the seasonal range of Gurney’s Sugarbird Promerops gurneyi, in the KwaZulu-

Natal Midlands, South Africa? Ostrich 79: 61-66

209. Downs, C.T. 2008. Aspects of diet choice and digestion in the Dark-capped Bulbul

Pycnonotus barbatus. Ostrich 79: 73-78.

210. Bowker, M.B. & Downs, C.T. 2008. The status of habitat of Great White and Pink-

backed Pelicans in north eastern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: a review. African

Zoology 43: 90-98.

211. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2008. Breeding incidence of the Great White Pelican

Pelecanus onocrotalus and the Pink-backed Pelican P. rufescens in south eastern Africa from 1933 to 2005. Ostrich 79: 23-35.

212. Downs, C.T., Greaver, C., & Taylor R. 2008. Body temperature and basking behaviour

of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) during winter. Journal of Thermal Biology 33:

185-192.

213. Smit, B., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Thermoregulatory responses in seasonally

acclimatized captive Southern White-faced Scops-owls. Journal of Thermal Biology 33:

76-86.

20

214. Inglis, M., Kirkwood, T., Downs, C.T. & Parkinson, J. 2007. Writing their way into

Science: gaining access to the discourse of Biology. Journal for Language Teaching 41:

83-98.

215. Coates, G. & Downs, C.T. 2007. Population estimates of bushbuck (Tragelaphus

scriptus) in valley thicket and coastal bushveld-grassland habitat. South African Journal

of Wildlife Research 37: 91-95.

216. Kirby, N.F. & Downs, C.T. 2007. Self-Assessment and the Science Foundation

Programme student. Potential for encouraging self-regulated learning? Assessment and

Evaluation in Higher Education 32: 475-494.

217. Brown, K. & Downs, C.T. 2007. Basking behaviour in rock hyrax (Procavia capensis)

during winter. African Zoology 42:70-79.

218. Coates, G. & Downs, C.T. 2006. A preliminary study of valley thicket and coastal

bushveld-grassland habitat use during summer by bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus): a

telemetry based study. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 36: 167-172.

219. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 2006 Population structure and density of Leopard

Tortoises (Geochelone pardalis) on farmland in the Nama-Karoo. Journal of

Herpetology 40: 497-503.

220. Pain, D.J., Martins, T.L.F., Boussekey, M., Diaz, S.H., Downs, C.T., Ekstrom, J.M.M.,

Garnett, S., Gilardi, J.D., McNiven, D., Primot, P. Rouys, S., Saoumoé, M., Symes, C.T.,

Tamungang, S.A., Theuerkauf, J., Villafuerte, D., Verfailles, L., Widmann, P. &

Widmann, I.D. 2006. The impact of protection on nest-take and nesting success of parrots

in Africa, Asia and Australasia. Animal Conservation 9: 332-330.

221. Downs, C.T. 2006. Geophagy in the African Olive Pigeon Columba arquatrix. Ostrich

77: 40-44.

222. Brown, K. & Downs, C.T. 2006. Seasonal patterns of body temperature of free-living

rock hyrax (Procavia capensis). Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology 143: 42-49

223. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 2006. Does seasonal and behavioral differences in the use

of refuges by the leopard tortoise (Geochelone pardalis) favour passive thermoregulation?

Herpetologica 62: 37-46.

224. Downs, C.T. 2006. What should make up a final mark for a course? An investigation

into the academic performance of first year Bioscience students. Assessment and

Evaluation in Higher Education 31: 345-364.

225. Downs, C.T. 2005. Is A Year-Long Access Course Into University Helping Previously

Disadvantaged Black Students In Biology? South African Journal of Higher Education

19:666-683.

226. Coates, G. & Downs, C.T. 2005. A survey of the status and management of syntopic

bushbuck and nyala in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. South African Journal of Wildlife

Research 35 (2):179-190.

227. Soobramoney, S., Downs, C.T. & Adams, N.J. 2005. Morphological variation in the

Common Fiscal Shrike Lanius collaris along an altitudinal gradient in southern Africa.

Ostrich 76 (3&4): 130-141.

228. Downs, C.T. 2005. Artificial nest boxes and wild Cape Parrots Poicephalus robustus:

persistence pays off. Ostrich 76 (3&4): 222-224

229. Coates, G. & Downs, C.T. 2005. A telemetry based study of bushbuck (Tragelaphus

scriptus) home range in Valley Bushveld. African Journal of Ecology 43:376-384.

230. Soobramoney, S., Campbell, G.K., Downs, C.T.& Adams, N.J. 2005. Genetic

variability of South African Fiscal Shrikes Lanius collaris across an altitudinal gradient in

South Africa. African Zoology 40: 193-204.

231. Downs, C.T. 2005. Abundance of the endangered Cape Parrot, Poicephalus robustus, in

South Africa: the implications for its survival. African Zoology 40: 15-24.

232. Brown, K. & Downs, C.T. 2005. Seasonal behavioural patterns of free-living rock hyrax

(Procavia capensis). Journal of Zoology 265:311-326

21

233. Symes, CT, Brown, M, Warburton, L., Perrin, MR and Downs, CT. 2004. Observations

of Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus nesting in the wild. Ostrich 75:106-109.

234. Downs, C.T. 2004. Some preliminary results of studies on the bill and tongue

morphology of Gurney's Sugarbird and some southern African sunbirds. Ostrich 75: 169-

175.

235. Downs, C.T. & Symes, C.T. 2004. Snag dynamics and forest structure in Afromontane

forests in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: implications for the conservation of cavity-

nesting avifauna. South African Journal of Botany 70: 265-276.

236. Soobramoney, S., Downs, C.T. & Adams, N.J. 2004. Variability in foraging behaviour

and prey of the Fiscal Shrike Lanius collaris along an altitudinal gradient in South Africa.

Ostrich 75: 133-140.

237. Soobramoney, S., Downs, C.T. & Adams, N.J. 2004. Territorial behaviour and time

budgets of the Fiscal Shrike Lanius collaris along an altitudinal gradient in South Africa.

African Zoology 39:137-143.

238. Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2004. Daily and seasonal differences in body and egg

temperatures in free-ranging Crowned Lapwings (Vanellus coronatus). African Zoology

39:115-122.

239. Soobramoney, S., Downs, C.T. & Adams, N.J. 2003. Physiological variability in the

Fiscal Shrike Lanius collaris along an altitudinal gradient in South Africa. Journal of

Thermal Biology 28:581-594.

240. Calf, K.M., Downs, C.T. & Cherry, M.I. 2003. Territoriality of Cape Sugarbirds

(Promerops cafer) between and within seasons. Ostrich 74:125-128.

241. Downs, C.T., McDonald, P., Brown, K. & Ward, D. 2003. The effects of Acacia

condensed tannins on urinary parameters, body mass and diet choice of an Acacia

specialist rodent, Thallomys nigricauda. Journal of Chemical Ecology 29: 827-840.

242. Calf, K.M., Downs, C.T. & Cherry, M.I. 2003. Foraging and territorial behaviour of

male Cape and Gurney's sugarbirds (Promerops cafer and Promerops gurneyi). African

Zoology 38:297-304

243. Brown, K.J. & Downs, C.T. 2003. Digestive Efficiency of a generalist avian feeder, the

Cape White-eye (Zosterops pallidus). Comparative Biochemistry & Physiology A 134:

739-749.

244. Calf, K.M., Downs, C.T. & Cherry, M.I. 2003. Territoriality and breeding success in

the Cape Sugarbird (Promerops cafer). Emu 103:29-35

245. Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2003. The role of shading behavior in the thermoregulation

of breeding Crowned Plovers (Vanellus coronatus). Journal of Thermal Biology 28: 51-

58.

246. Symes, C.T. & Downs, C.T. 2002. Occurrence of Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus at

non-forest feeding sites in South Africa: threats to a declining population. Bulletin of the

African Bird Club 9: 27-31.

247. Mbatha, K.R., Downs, C.T. & Penning, M. 2002 Nectar passage and gut morphology in

the Malachite Sunbird and the Black-capped Lory: implications for feeding in

nectarivores. Ostrich 73: 138-142.

248. Symes, C.T., Wirminghaus, J.O., & Downs, C.T. 2002. Species richness and seasonality

of forest avifauna in three South African afromontane forests. Ostrich 73: 106-113.

249. Downs, C.T., Van Dyk, R. & Iji, P. 2002. Wax digestion in the Lesser Honeyguide

Indicator minor. Comparative Biochemistry & Physiology A 133: 125-134.

250. Mbatha, K.R., Downs, C.T., & Nsahlai, I.V. 2002. The effects of graded levels of

dietary tannin on the epithelial tissue of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidney masses

of Boer goats. Animal Science (British) 74:579-586.

251. Byron, J. & Downs, C.T. 2002. Bird presence at Oribi Airport and Recommendations to

avoid bird strikes. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 32: 49-58.

22

252. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2002. Diet of the Cape

Parrot, Poicephalus robustus, in Afromontane forests in

KwaZulu- Natal, South Africa. Ostrich 73: 20-25.

253. Calf, K.M. & Downs, C.T. 2002. Breeding biology of the Gurney's sugarbird,

Promerops gurneyi in Qwaqwa National Park, eastern Free State. Ostrich 73: 1-4.

254. Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2002. Nocturnal Heterothermy And Torpor In The Malachite

Sunbird (Nectarinia famosa, Passeriformes). Auk 119: 251-260.

255. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T. Perrin, M.R. & Symes, C.T. 2002. Taxonomic

relationships of the subspecies of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus (Gmelin).

Journal of Natural History 36: 361-378.

256. Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2002. Development of Homeothermy in Hatchling Crowned

Plovers Vanellus coronatus. Journal of Thermal Biology 27:95-101.

257. Feltham, N.F. & Downs, C.T. 2002. Three forms of assessment of prior knowledge, and

improved performance following an enrichment programme, of English second Language

Biology students within the context of a marine theme. International Journal of Science

Education 24: 157-184.

258. Calf, K.M., Downs, C.T. & Cherry, M.I. 2001. Territoriality and breeding success in

Gurney's Sugarbirds (Promerops gurneyi). African Zoology 36: 189-195.

259. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2001. Breeding biology

of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus. Ostrich 72: 159-164.

260. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2001. Fruiting in Two

Afromontane Forests in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: the Habitat Type of the

Endangered Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus South African Journal of Botany 67:

329-336

261. Daniels, C., Downs, C.T. & Maclean, G.L. 2001. Arthropods in the diet of

nectarivorous birds (Passeriformes: Nectariniidae) and sugarbirds (Passeriformes:

Promeropidae). Durban Museum Novitates 26: 45-48.

262. Symes, C.T. & Downs, C.T. 2001. Feeding and energy intake in two avian frugivores,

the Blackeyed Bulbul Pycnonotus barbartus and Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus.

Durban Museum Novitates 26: 20-24.

263. Haim. A., Downs, C.T., & Raman, J. 2001. Effects of adrenergic blockade on the daily

rhythms of body temperature and oxygen consumption the Black-tailed Tree Rat

(Thallomys nigricauda) maintained under different photoperiods. Journal of Thermal

Biology 26: 171-177 264. Downs, C.T., Drummond, A.E., Akhurst, E.G.J. & Inglis, M. 2001. The Marine theme:

a contribution to learning in second language Biology students. South African Journal of

Education 21: 48-54.

265. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2001. Abundance and

activity patterns of the Cape Parrot (Poicephalus robustus) in two afromontane forests in

South Africa. African Zoology 36: 71-77

266. Symes, C.T., Downs, C.T. & McLean, S. 2001. Seasonal occurrence of the Malachite

Sunbird Nectarina famosa and Gurney’s Sugarbird Promerops gurneyi in KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa. Ostrich 72: 45-49.

267. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2000. Abundance of the

Cape Parrot in South Africa. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 30: 43-52.

268. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T., Perrin, M.R. & Dempster, E.R. 2000.

Vocalisations and behaviours of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus (Psittaciformes:

Psittacidae). Durban Museum Novitates 25: 12-17.

269. Downs, C.T., Wirminghaus, J.O. & Lawes, M. 2000. Anatomical and nutritional

adaptations of the Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus). Auk 117(3): 791-794.

270. Downs, C.T. 2000. Ingestion patterns and daily energy intake on a sugary diet: the Red

Lory (Eos bornea) and the Malachite Sunbird (Nectarinia famosa). Ibis 142: 359-364.

23

271. Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1999. Conservation of the

Cape Parrot in southern Africa. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 29:118-

129.

272. Perrin, M.R., Dempster, E.R., Downs, C.T. & Boyer, D.C. 1999. Gerbillurus tytonis.

Mammalian Species. American Society of Mammalogists. 607:1-4.

273. Perrin, M.R., Dempster, E.R. & Downs, C.T. 1999. Gerbillurus paeba. Mammalian

Species. American Society of Mammalogists. 606: 1-6.

274. Dempster, E.R., Perrin, M.R., & Downs, C.T., 1999. Gerbillurus vallinus. Mammalian

Species. American Society of Mammalogists. 605: 1-4.

275. Dempster, E.R., Perrin, M.R., Downs, C.T., & Griffen, M., 1998. Gerbillurus setzeri.

Mammalian Species. American Society of Mammalogists. 598: 1-4.

276. Frean, J., Downs, C.T. & Lovegrove, B. 1998. Osmoregulatory capacity of an arboreal

desert rodent (Thallomys nigricauda): Adaptations to high temperatures. Journal of Arid

Environments 40: 97-107.

277. Downs, C.T. 1997. Sugar preference and apparent sugar assimilation in the Red Lory.

Australian Journal of Zoology 45: 613-619.

278. Downs, C.T. & Ward, D. 1997. Does shading behaviour of incubating shorebirds in hot

environments cool the eggs or the adults? Auk 114: 717-724.

279. Downs, C.T. & Wirminghaus, J.O.W. 1997. The terrestrial vertebrates of the Bazaruto

archipelago, Mozambique: a biogeographic perspective. Journal of Biogeography 24:

591-602.

280. Downs, C.T. 1997. Sugar digestion efficiencies of Gurney's Sugarbirds, Malachite

sunbirds and Black Sunbirds. Physiological Zoology 70 (1):93-99.

281. Downs, C.T. 1996. Renal structure, and the effect of an insectivorous diet on urine

composition of southern African elephant-shrew species (Macroscelidea). Mammalia

60:577-589.

282. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1996. The thermal biology of southern Africa's smallest

rodent, Mus minutoides. South African Journal of Science 92: 282-284.

283. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1996. Sugar preferences of some southern african

nectarivorous birds. Ibis 138: 455-459.

284. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1995. The thermal biology of three southern African

elephant-shrews. Journal of Thermal Biology 20: 445-450.

285. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1995. The thermal biology of the white-tailed rat

Mystromys albicaudatus, a cricetine relic in southern temperate African grassland.

Comparative Biochemistry & Physiology 110A: 65-69.

286. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1994. Comparative aspects of the thermal biology of the

short-tailed gerbil, Desmodillus auricularis, and the bushveld gerbil, Tatera leucogaster.


287. Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 1994. Comparative aspects of the thermal biology of the

Cape spiny mouse, Acomys subspinosus and the Common spiny mouse, A. spinosissimus.

Israel Journal of Zoology 40: 151-160.

288. Downs, C.T., Bowland, J.M., Bowland, A.E. & Perrin M.R. 1991. Thermal parameters

of serval Felis serval (Felidae) and blackbacked jackal Canis mesomelas (Canidae).


289. Downs, C.T. & Perrin M.R. 1991. Physiological adjustments to low temperatures of

four Gerbillurus species. Journal of Thermal Biology 16: 25-29.

290. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1991. Urinary concentrating ability of four Gerbillurus

species of southern African arid regions. Journal of Arid Environments 20: 71-81.

291. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1990. Thermal parameters of four Gerbillurus species.


292. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1990. Field water-turnover rates of three Gerbillurus

species. Journal of Arid Environments 19: 199-208.

24

293. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1990. The effect of diet on the water and energy turnover

rates of Four Gerbillurus in captivity. Journal of Zoology (London) 222: 215-233.

294. Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1989. An investigation of the macro- and micro-

environments of four Gerbillurus species. Cimbebasia 11: 41-54.

Publications in non-SAPSE Journals

1. Downs C.T. 2012. Contributions of the BirdLife Ornithological Trust to bird research and

capacity development. Ornithological Observations 2: 62-68.

2. Downs, C.T. & McMaster, M. 2006. Thermal Base écologique et paramèters démographiques

de la Tortue léopard Geochelone pardalis en Afrique du Sud. Cheloniens 1: 22-29.

3. Bandu, VJ, & Downs, CT 2007. Ultramicroscopic structure of the feet of Moreau’s tropical

house gecko Hemidactylus mabouia. African Herp News 42: 2-8.

4. Symes, C. T., Downs, C. T. and Brown, M. (2001). Movements and timing of moult and

breeding of the Cape White-eye Zosterops pallidus in KwaZulu-Natal. Afring News 30,

35-39.

5. Brown, M., Symes, C. T., and Downs, C. T. (2001). The successful release of wild-caught

birds used in laboratory experiments. Afring News 30, 42.43.

Chapters in books

1. Perrin, M.R., McGowan, P., Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Warburton, L. 2000. Africa. In:

Parrots. Status survey and conservation action plan 2000-2004. Snyder, N. McGowan,

P., Gilardi, J. & Grajal, A. (Eds). IUCN, Gland Switzerland. Pp 90-97.

2. Downs, C.T. 2000. Cape Parrot. In: The Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa,

Lesotho and Swaziland. Barnes, K. (ed) BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg, pp. 48-

49.

3. Downs, C.T. 2005. Cape Parrot. In: Roberts’ Birds of southern Africa 7th Ed. Hockey, P. , Dean,

WRJ, & Ryan, PG (ed) John Voelker Bird Fund, Cape Town. Pp 221-222

4. Downs, C.T. & Wirminghaus, J.O. 2008. Terrestrial mammals, Chapter 6. In: A natural history

of the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique. Everett, B.I., van der Elst, R.P. &

Schleyer, M.H. (eds). Oceanographic Research Institute Special Publication 8 pp. 41-

45. Marine Parade, Durban.

5. Combrink, X., Warner, J.K., Downs, C.T. 2013. Crocodiles. In Ecology and Conservation of

Estuarine Ecosystems: Lake St. Lucia as a Global Model. Eds R. Perissinotto, D.D. Stretch &

R.H. Taylor, Cambridge University, Press, Cambridge. pp. 332 – 353.

6. Downs, C.T. 2015. Cape Parrot. In The 2015 Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa,

Lesotho and Swaziland. Eds M.R. Taylor, F. Peacock & R.M. Wanless. Birdlife South Africa,

Johannesburg. Pp. 143-145.

7. Eksteen J, Goodman P, Whyte I, Downs C, Taylor R. 2016. A conservation assessment of

Hippopotamus amphibius. In Child MF, Roxburgh L, Do Linh San E, Raimondo D, Davies-

Mostert HT, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho.

South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Thesis Titles

Downs, C.T. 1985. The effects of protein restriction on the blood biochemistry of Praomys

natalensis. Hons thesis, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

Downs, C.T. 1989. The ecophysiology of four Gerbillurus species with special reference to

their water and temperature regulation. PhD thesis, University of Natal,

Pietermaritzburg.

25

Downs, C.T. 2002. Investigation into the academic performance of students in Bioscience at the

University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, with particular reference to the Science

Foundation Programme students. M.Ed thesis, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

Reports

1. Downs, C.T., Calverley, P., Champion, G., Combrink, X., Myburgh, J., Summers, M. &

Warner, J. 2015. Status of Nile Crocodile in north eastern KwaZulu-Natal and

conservation management recommendations. WRC, Pretoria.

2. Warburton, L., Mpindi, S., Howells, B., Pienaar, K., Patterson, C., Mattison, H., Whittington-

Jones, C., Hughes, S., Fossey, A., O’Grady, J., Koekemoer, J., Downs, C., Perrin, M.,

& Evans, S.W. (eds). 2002. Cape Parrot Action Plan, Cape Parrot Action Plan

Stakeholder Workshop Report, SASOL & BirdLife SA.

3. Houston, J., Downs, C., Drummond, A., Spankie, S., Grussendorff, S., Warren, L.,

Watkinson, J. & Barnsley. 1998. Annual Report of the Billiton Science Foundation

Programme at the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

4. Downs, C.T. & Symes, C.T. 1998. Cape Parrots: Report on the second Cape Parrot Big

Birding Day, (25 April 1998).

5. Downs, C.T., Symes, C.T. & Frean, J. 1997. Report on the pilot Cape Parrot Big Birding Day

6. Downs, C.T. 1997. The ecology and conservation status of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus r.

robustus in southern Africa. W.W.F.

7. Downs, C.T. 1996. The ecology and conservation status of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus r.

robustus in southern Africa. New York Conservation Society.

8. Downs, C.T. & Wirminghaus, J.O. 1990. Report on a mammal survey of the Bazaruto

Archipelago, Mozambique, with a note on the reptilian and amphibian fauna. Report

to the W.W.F. and Mozambique Government, Maputo.

Conference proceedings

1. Henderson, C.L. & Downs, C.T. 2007. Working with factors affecting the natural forest

habitat of the Cape Parrot. In: Multiple use management of Natural Forests and

Woodlands: policy refinement and scientific progress. Natural Forests and Savanna

Woodlands Symposium IV Port Elizabeth, South Africa 15-18 May 2006. eds JJ

Bester, AHW Seydack, T Vorster, IJ van der Merwe, S Dzivhani. Published: 2007,

Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, Pretoria, pp 133-139.

2. Downs, C., Boix-Hinzen, C & Brown, M. 2006 Morphology and functional significance of air

bags in hornbill nestlings. In: Kemp, A.C. & Kemp, P.I. (eds). The active management

of hornbills and their habitats for conservation, p. 337. CD-ROM Proceedings of the

4th International Hornbill, Conference, Mabula Game Lodge, Bela-Bela, South Africa.

Naturalists & Nomads, Pretoria.

3. Bandu, V.J. & Downs, C.T. 2004. How does a gecko stick to a wall? Microscopy Society of

Southern Africa Proceedings 34: 85.

4. Kirby, N.F. & Downs, C.T. 2003. Three forms of assessment of prior knowledge, and

improved performance following an enrichment programme, of English second

Language Biology students within the context of a marine theme. Proceedings of the

Third International Conference on Science, mathematics and Technology Education,

East London, South Africa. Pp401-413., Curtin University, Australia.

5. Mbatha, K. R., Downs, C.T., Bonsi, M.L.K. & Nsahlai. I. 2000. The effect of tannin ingestion

on the gastrointestinal tract of Boer-goats. Proceedings of the Microscopy Society of

Southern Africa. 30: 52.

6. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 2000. Changes in body composition, diet and breeding cycles

of a rodent population in acacia woodland. 6th International Conference Rodens and

Spatium, Acre, Israel. Israel Journal of Zoology 46: 378

26

7. Downs, C.T., Inglis, M. & Akhurst, E.G.J. 1995. Developing students’ general knowledge as

a foundation for studying Life Science at University: the Science Foundation

Programme experience. Proceedings of SAAAD conference, Bloemfontein.

Popular articles

1. Downs, C.T., E. Ally & Singh, P. 2017. 20th Annual Parrot Count- Report on the 2017 Cape

Parrot Big Birding Day. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

2. Downs, C.T. & Singh, P. 2016. 19th Annual Parrot Count- Report on the 2016 Cape Parrot

Big Birding Day. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

3. Downs, C.T. & Singh, P. 2015. 18th Annual Parrot Count- Report on the 2015 Cape Parrot

Big Birding Day. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

4. Hart, L. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Bird invasions – the example of the rose-ringed parakeet.

QUEST special issue on "Invasion science in South Africa". 11/12: 38-41.

5. Pfeiffer, M., Botha, A., Venter, J. & Downs, C. 2014. Silent Slaughter of Africa’s Vultures:

How mass poisonings are putting the birds at risk. The Wildlife Professional Spring

2014.

6. Downs, C.T. 2014. 17th Annual Parrot Count- Report on the 2014 Cape Parrot Big Birding

Day. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

7. Downs, C.T. & Hart, L. 2013. Joining the dots for Cape Parrots. Why conservation of

networks of forests is important for the Cape Parrot. Birdlife IBA Programme

newsletter Autumn 2013.

8. Downs, C.T. & Hart. L. 2013. 16th Annual Parrot Count- Report on the 2012 Cape Parrot Big

Birding Day. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.



10. Thompson, L. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Cape parrots, a flagship species for South Africa’s

Afromontane forests? Wildside.

11. Thompson, L. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Cape parrots, a flagship species for South Africa’s

Afromontane forests? The Environment.



13. Downs, C.T. & Bowker, M.B. 2010. Counting Parrots- report on the 2010 Cape Parrot Big

Birding. Report, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

14. Downs, C.T. 2009. Counting Parrots- report on the 2009 Cape Parrot Big Birding. Report,

University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.





17. Downs, C.T. 2006. Counting Parrots- report on the 2006 Cape Parrot Big Birding. Psittacene

18(3):12

18. Downs, C.T. 2006. Going to seed: what dispersers coral trees? Africa Birds & Birding

11(1):20.

19. Downs, C.T. 2005. Counting Parrots- report on the 2005 Cape Parrot Big Birding Day Africa.

Report, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.

20. Downs, C.T. 2005. Africa Birds & Birding.

21. Downs, C.T. 2004. Counting Parrots- report on the 2004 Cape Parrot Big Birding Day.

BirdLife SA magazine.

27

22. Downs, C.T. & Warburton, L. 2003. Counting Parrots- report on the 2003 Cape Parrot Big

Birding Day. KZN Birds 6: 13-15

23. Downs, C.T. & Warburton, L. 2002. Counting Parrots- report on the 2002 Cape Parrot Big

Birding Day. Indaba Inyoni (July) 5(3): 15-17.

24. Downs, C.T. & Warburton, L. 2002. Cape Parrot big birding day, May 11th (pm) and May 12th

(am) 2002. Avizandum 14(3): 26-27.

25. Downs, C.T. 2002. Participate in the Cape Parrot Big Birding Day 2002. Indaba Inyoni

BirdLife South Africa 5(1): 32.

26. Downs, C.T. 2002. Counting Parrots. Wildside 2(2):28-29.

27. Brown, M. Symes, C.T. & Downs, C.T. Using wild-caught birds for laboratory research- do

we release or euthenase them? SAFring News

28. Downs, C.T. 2001. Report on the Cape Parrot Big Birding Day 2001. Indaba Inyoni BirdLife

South Africa 4(3): 17-19.

29. Downs, C. 2001. Help is needed to monitor the endangered Cape Parrot. NU Info 11(12):3

30. Symes, C., Wirminghaus, J.O. & Downs, C. 2000. Ringing efforts in two South African

Mistbelt Mixed Podocarpus Forests. Safring News 29: 59-66.

31. Downs, C.T. 2001. Cape Parrot Big Birding Day 2000. Psittascene 13: 14.

32. Downs, C.T. 2000. The Cape Crusader. Parrots (UK) 36: 47-49.

33. Downs, C.T. 2000. Report on the Cape Parrot Big Birding Day 2000. Unpublished report,

University of Natal.

34. Forbes, D. & Downs, C.T. 2000. Polly’s in trouble. South Africa’s only endemic parrot: the

Cape Parrot. African Wildlife 54 (6).

35. Symes, C.T. & Downs, C.T. 1999. The Cape Parrot- an additional valid species: a response to

Clancey (1997). Honeyguide 45: 127-128

36. Downs, C.T. 1999. Cape Parrot Birding Days- Why get involved? Karkloof/Balgowan

Conservancies magazines.

37. Downs, C.T. 1999. Cape Parrot. Palmnut Post- Magazine of the Durban Natural Science

Museum.

38. Downs, C.T. 1999. Cape Parrot Big Birding Day. NUFocus.

39. Downs, C.T. 1999. Cape Parrot Big Birding Day. Africa & Birding.

40. Symes, C.T. & Downs, C.T. 1998. The role of nest sites in population declines of the Cape

Parrot. Avizandum 10: 32-33.

41. Downs, C.T. & Symes, C.T. 1998. Cape Parrots: Report on the second Cape Parrot Big

Birding Day, (25 April 1998).Psittascene 10 (3): 5-7.

42. Robinson, P.M., Downs, C.T. & Symes, C.T. 1998. Cape Parrot Big Birding Day. Avizandum

10:13.

43. Arnot, L., Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1998. Cape Parrots in captivity: Some breeding data.

Avizandum 10: 12.

44. Downs, C.T. 1994. Sunbirds, sugarbirds and plant nectar localities in Natal. Plantlife.

45. Downs, C.T. & Wirminghaus, J.O. 1994. The value of honey: old wives' tales or not. South

African Bee Journal 66 (1): 13-17.

POSTGRADUATE STUDENT SUPERVISION

Honours

1. Josiah, Kyrone 2018. Rise of the starlings: Increase in red-winged starlings (Onychognathus

morio) in urbanised areas of KwaZulu-Natal. Supervisor.

28

2. Msweli, Lindelwa Sibongakonke 2018. Effects of indigenous southern African ungulates on

seed dispersal and germination of alien invasive lantana (Lantana camara), bugweed

(Solanum mauritianum) and syringa (Melia azedarach). Supervisor.

3. Singh, Nikisha 2017. Home range and population size estimation and assessment of the

factors affecting an urban exploiter: the tree agama. Supervisor.

4. Mabaso, Xolani 2017. The role of Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bats in dispersal and

germination of Ficus species. Supervisor.

5. Cormac, Cameron 2017. Distribution modelling and population genetics of the endangered

Kloof frog (Natalobatrachus bonebergi). Supervisor.

6. Bitani, Nasiphi 2017. The role of frugivorous birds in dispersal of Lantana camara.

Supervisor.

7. Molefe, KL 2016. The role of frugivorous birds in dispersing the invasive bramble.

Supervisor.

8. Sánchez Alcocer, Timia 2016. Risk assessment of potential invasive mammals in South

Africa. Supervisor

9. Bester, Darien 2016. Use of green material in raptor nests. Supervisor

10. Dlamini, Pumla 2016. The effect of various frugivoruos birds on the seed germination of

invasive species Litsea glutinosa (Indian laurel) and Schinus terebinthifolius

(Brazilian pepper tree). Supervisor

11. Kheswa, Enhle 2015. Habitat use and predator influence on Honey Badgers in Isimangaliso

Wetland Park. Supervisor.

12. Maseko, Mfundo 2015. Response of Crested Guinea Fowls to habitat conversion at

Isimalingiso Wetland Park, South Africa. Supervisor.

13. Gumede, Thobeka 2015. Sugar preferences in common mynas. Supervisor.

14. Fritsch, C. 2015.The effect of differing land use on the presence and habitat use of various

mongoose species. Supervisor.

15. Marchant, Claire. 2014. Woolly-necked storks use of urban environments in KwaZulu-Natal.

Supervisor.

16. Madiya, Lungelo. Role of Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat in dispersing indigenous fruits.

Supervisor.

17. Matee, Lusanda 2013. Sleep behavior in selected South African avian species. Supervisor.

18. Pillay, Kerushka 2013. Dietary parameters in Cape porcupine. Supervisor.

19. Magudu, Kholsa 2012. Urban Ecology: House sparrows in Pietermaritzburg. Supervisor.

20. Thabethe, Vuyisile 2012. Seasonal variation in the thermoregulation and metabolic rate of

ring-necked parakeets. Supervisor.

21. Senoge, Ntaki 2012. Lactic Acid levels in homing pigeons: fitness indication? Supervisor.

22. Wilks, Richard 2011. Lactic Acid levels in birds: fitness indication? Supervisor.

23. Zungu, Moses M. 2011. Seasonal variation in thermoregulation of Patagonian burrowing

parrots. Supervisor.

24. Mqokeli, Babalwe. 2010. Sugar assimilation and digestion in Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit-

bats. Supervisor.

25. Hartley, Robyn. 2010. The cost of winning: Navigation in homing pigeons and its application

to route choice in birds. Supervisor

26. Wreford, Erin. 2010. Is maximum flight hunting speed correlated to wing shape and area in

southern African Raptors? Supervisor

27. Rollins, Dominic. 2009. The Hadeda Ibis: factors affecting its range expansion and increased

numbers in an urban environment. Co-supervisor

28. Jones, Amanda. 2009. Feral cat population estimates and demography on the University of

KwaZulu-Natal campuses: implications for management. Supervisor.

29. Beharie, Ushir. 2009. Seasonal effect on the resting metabolic rate and basal metabolic rate

of Grey-headed Sparrows. Supervisor.

29

30. Chamane, S. 2008. Seasonal effect on the resting metabolic rate and basal metabolic rate of

Redwinged Starlings (Onychognathus morio). Supervisor.

31. Nzama, S. 2008. Effect of season and captivity on the basal metabolic rate of House Sparrows

(Passer domesticus). Supervisor.

32. Lobban, K. 2008. Plasma glucose levels in birds. Supervisor.

33. Hart, J. 2008. Distribution of the Whale shark (Rhicodon typus) along the KwaZulu-Natal

coast of South Africa: are they expanding their range? Supervisor.

34. Bush, N. 2007. Phenotypic plasticity in thermorgulatory responses in the rock kestrel (Falco

rupicolus). Supervisor.

35. Odendaal, T. 2007. Which Nectars do Village Weavers Prefer? Consequences for generalized

bird pollination. Co-supervisor.

36. Smit, B. 2006 Seasonal metabolic response in White-faced owls. Supervisor.

37. Potgieter, D. 2006. The effect of protea farms on Gurney’s Sugarbird in KZN.

38. Wellmann, A. 2005. Fruit sugar preferences and digestive function of Cape White-eyes

(Zosterops pallidus). Supervisor.

39. Pistorius, P. 2005. Food choice, energy assimilation and potential dispersal of invasive alien

South African plant fruits by Dark-capped Bulbuls (Pycnonotus tricolor). Supervisor.

40. King, H. 2005. Feeding on Chromolaena odorata: good or bad for Boer goats? Supervisor.

41. Coates, G. 2001. The effect of Chromalina on the digestive tract of Nyala. Supervisor.

42. Prangley, R. 2001. The effect of Chromalina on the digestive tract of Nyala- a scanning

electron microscope study. Supervisor.

43. Brookes, K.J. 2000. Digestive Efficiency of a generalist feeder, the Cape White-eye

(Zosterops pallidus). Supervisor.

44. Van Dyk, R. 2000. Wax digestion in the Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor. Supervisor.

45. Byron, J. 2000. Air strikes at Oribi Airport. Supervisor.

46. Pickstone, S.J. 1999. Feeding rates and behaviour of the Forkedtailed Drongo (Dicrurus

adsimilis) with specific emphasis on the interaction with commercial bee hives.

Supervisor.

47. Mbatha, K. 1998. Comparison of distensible oesophagus and crop storage in nectarivores.

Supervisor.

48. Williams, L. 1998. The effect of diet on the water turnover of Aethomys crysophilus.

Supervisor.

49. Robinson, P. 1998. The effect dietary tannins on the digestion of Tree-rats, Thallomys

nigricauda. Supervisor.

50. McDonald D. 1998. Behavioural thermoregulation in Otomys sloggetti. Supervisor.

51. Symes, C.T. 1997. Fruit size selection and feeding in the Black-eyed Bulbul Pycnonotus

barbartus (Family Pycnonotidae) and the Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus (Family

Coliidae). Supervisor.

52. Frean, J. 1996 The osmoregulatory capacity of an arboreal desert rodent (Thallomys

nigricauda): Adaptations to high temperatures. Supervisor.

53. McMaster, M.K. 1996. Seasonal trends in the diet, demography and body composition of

Acacia woodland rodents. Supervisor.

MASTERS (date indicates start year)

1. Cele, Jennifer 2018. Juvenile Fish Recruitment into Coastal Northern KwaZulu-Natal

Estuaries. In progress Co-supervisor.

2. Bodenstein, Johan 2018. An assessment of the outcomes of the obligated conservation

management conditions of environment authorisations for residential estates in Ballito,

KZN. In progress Co-supervisor.

3. Singh, Nikisha 2018. Aspects of the ecology of an urban exploiter: the tree agama. In

progress. In progress Supervisor.

4. Bitani, Nasiphi 2018. The role of frugivorous birds in dispersal of Lantana camara. In

30

progress. In progress Supervisor.

5. Cormac, Cameron 2018. Distribution modelling and population genetics of the endangered

Kloof frog (Natalobatrachus bonebergi). In progress Co-supervisor.

6. Gane, Julie 2018. Impact of human intervention on the conservation and population dynamics

of Critically Endangered Hawksbill Turtles nesting on Cousine Island, Seychelles. In

progress. Supervisor.

7. Reardon Shannon, 2017. The effect of wastewater treatment on avian taxonomic and

functional diversity, and the haematology and metal concentrations of water birds. In

progress. Co-supervisor.

8. Gongo, Nombuso Yedwa 2017. Application of the Relative Risk Model to evaluate the risk of

current and future land use practices to the socio-ecological features of the Thukela

River the KwaZulu-Natal. In progress. Co-supervisor.

9. Dlamini, Pumla 2017. Fish communities in the uMngeni River as well as aspects of the

biology of KwaZulu-Natal yellowfish, Labeobarbus natalensis. In progress. Co-

supervisor.

10. Mashaphu, Mahlatse Fortunate 2017. Conservation of Oreochromis mossambicus in

KwaZulu-Natal and the importance of Albert Falls Dam Fisheries for this species. In

progress. Co-supervisor.

11. Mthembu, Mphatheni 2017. Evaluation of the wellbeing of the fish communities of the

Mkuze, Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Rivers in KwaZulu-Natal. In progress. Co-supervisor.

12. AbdAlatef, Mohamed Ezat 2017. Aspects of Nile crocodile behaviour at Ndumo Game

Reserve. MSc thesis, Kiev University, Germany. MSc completed. Co-supervisor.

13. Schmidt, W. 2016. Aspects of snake ecology with changing land use. In progress. Supervisor.

14. Mashele, Nhlamazi Mbali 2017. Threats to African vulture species including human

interaction, traditional healing practices and the effectiveness of conservation efforts

in the Kruger 2 Canyons Biosphere Region. In progress Supervisor.

15. Madiya, Lungelo 2016. Movement, habitat use and wellbeing of estuarine fishes in the

Amatikulu Estuary KwaZulu-Natal. In progress co-supervisor.

16. Mkhohlwa, Muzi Nicholas 2016-2017. Assessment of roadkills in Umfolozi-Hluhluwe Park,

KwaZulu-Natal. MSc completed, Supervisor.

17. Ngcobo, Samukelisiwe Princess 2016. Aspects of the ecology of Cape porcupines on

farmland in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MSc completed, Supervisor.

18. Streicher, Jarryd 2016-2017. The effects of differing land use on the presence and habitat use

of various mongoose species. MSc completed, Supervisor.

19. Kheswa, Enhle 2016. Habitat use and predator influence on honey badgers in Isimangaliso

Wetland Park. In progress Supervisor.

20. Maseko, Mfundo 2016. The effects of fragmentation on forest-dependent bird occupancy and

ecological connectivity within the eThekwini Municipality. MSc completed,

Supervisor.

21. Gumede, Thobeka 2016. Aspects of the feeding ecology of common mynas. MSc completed,

Supervisor.

22. Sosibo, Mbalenhle Thabile 2016. Regional Scale Ecological Risk Assessment to evaluate

threats to local and regional socio-ecological management objectives for river

dominated lowland rivers/estuaries in KwaZulu-Natal. MSc completed, co-supervisor.

23. Tenza, Ntombiphumile Perceverence 2016. Macroinvertebrate community responses to water

quality, quantity and habitat changes of rivers in KwaZulu-Natal. MSc completed, co-

supervisor.

24. Fritsch, Camille. 2016. Aspects of the ecology of hippo in Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-

Natal. In progress Supervisor.

25. Martens, Francis 2016-2017. Flight and roosting behavioural characteristics of juvenile Cape

Vultures in the Eastern Cape, South Africa and their vulnerability to wind energy

turbines. MSc completed, co-supervisor.

31

26. Theron, Rina 2015. The population dynamics and breeding biology of the Critically

Endangered Blue Swallow Hirundo atrocaerulea in southern KwaZulu-Natal. MSc in

progress co-supervisor.

27. Mazibuko, Molefi 2015. Wellbeing of fishes from the Sabie River and the flow dependent

habitat preferences of these fishes. MSc in progress co-supervisor

28. Evans, Wesley 2015-2017. Using fish to assess the wellbeing of KwaZulu-Natal Rivers with

reference to the KwaZulu-Natal yellowfish. MSc completed, co-supervisor

29. Manqele, Nomthandazo Samantha 2015-2017. The assessment of the impacts drivers and

extent of hunting for meat and muthi on serval (Serval leptailurus) and oribi (Ourebia

ouribi), through community perceptions. MSc completed, co-supervisor.

30. Jordaan, Maryna 2015-2016. Assessing the success of redbilled oxpecker translocations as a

conservation tool in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MSc completed, supervisor.

31. Van der Meer, Tim 2015-2016. Temporal changes and spatial comparison of the breeding diet

of African Crowned Eagles (Stephanoaetus coronatus) in urban areas of KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa. MSc University of Amsterdam, completed, co-supervisor.

32. Drabik-Hamshare, Martyn. 2014 (Sept)-2016. Movement, home range and habitat use in

Leopard Tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis) on commercial farmland in the semi-arid

Karoo. MSc completed, supervisor.

33. Alexander, Jayred 2014-2016. Stable isotope analyses of African grey parrots (Psittacus

erithacus): a forensic isotope approach. Wits University. Co-supervisor, completed.

34. Summers, Mark 2014-2015. Aspects of Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) population

ecology and behaviour in Pongolapoort Dam, KwaZulu-Natal. MSc completed

supervisor

35. Pillay, Kerushka. 2014-2015. Aspects of the ecology of feral cats (Felis catus) in urban

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MSc completed, supervisor.

36. Lepinay, Julie 2014. The role of Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bats in dispersal and germination

of Ficus species. MSc completed, University of Reunion, supervisor.

37. Malecore, Eva 2013. Effectiveness of invasive alien plant clearing and impacts on the

arthropod assemblage through a food web approach in Ndumo Game Reserve.

University of Konstanz, Germany, Co-supervisor, completed

38. Senoge, Ntaki. 2013 July-2015. Eco-physiological aspects of the invasive common myna.

MSc completed, supervisor.

39. Patterson, Lindsay. 2013-2014. Habitat use and home range of vervet monkeys Cercopithecus

aethiops pygerythrus in a peri-urban environment. MSc completed, converted to a

PhD. Supervisor.

40. Humphries, Bruce 2013-2014. The ecology of black-backed jackal (Canis mesomelas) on

farmlands in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MSc completed,

supervisor.

41. Thabethe, Vuyisile. 2013-2014. Aspects of avian thermal physiology and frugivory of

indigenous and invasive fruits in South Africa. MSc completed, supervisor.

42. Singh, Preshnee 2012-2014. Range expansion of the hadeda ibis (Bostrychia hagedash) in

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal: an urban environment. MSc completed, supervisor.

43. Widdows, Craig 2012-2013. Ecology of large-spotted genets (Genetta tigrina) in an urban

environment. MSc completed, converted to a PhD. Supervisor.

44. Zungu, Moses M. 2012-2014. Aspects of fruit digestion and selection in selected southern

African frugivorous birds. MSc completed, supervisor.

45. McPherson, Shane 2012-2013. Breeding ecology of peri-urban Crowned Eagles

(Stephanoaetus coronatus) in KwaZulu-Natal. MSc completed, converted to a PhD.

Supervisor

46. Pfeiffer, Morgan 2012-2013. Home range and feeding ecology of Cape Vultures in the

Eastern Cape. MSc completed, converted to a PhD. Supervisor

32

47. Wreford, Erin. 2011-2013. Comparative ecology of Black Sparrowhawks (Accipter

melanoleucus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MSc completed, supervisor

48. Mqokeli, Babalwe. 2011-2012. Aspects of digestion and physiology in Wahlberg’s epauletted

fruit-bats (Epomophorus wahlbergi). MSc completed, supervisor

49. Rollinson, Dominic 2010-2012. Seasonal home range and foraging movements of the

Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat (Epomophorous wahlbergi) in an urban environment.

MSc completed, supervisor

50. Russell, Charlene 2008-2010. The effect of land use on the species composition of Anura

(frogs, toads and platannas) in North-eastern KwaZulu-Natal. MSc completed,

supervisor.

51. Ally, Ebrahaim 2008-2010. Avian fruit selection and sugar preferences. MSc completed,

supervisor. 52. Champion, Garreth. 2009-2010. The ecology of Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) in

Pongolapoort Dam, northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. MSc completed,

supervisor

53. Calverly, Peter. 2009-2010. Conservation Ecology of the Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus

niloticus) in the Ndumu Game Reserve. MSc completed, converted to PhD,

supervisor.

54. Brocklehurst, Zoe. 2007-2009. Bird community ecology and composition in Afrotemperate

forests of the Drakensberg mountains, South Africa. MSc completed, supervisor

55. Jordaan, Lorinda. 2008-2009. A closer look at the relationship between frugivorous birds and

alien invasive plant species in South Africa. MSc converted to PhD, supervisor.

56. Wilson, Amy-Leigh, 2008-2009. Aspects of the thermal physiology and fruit digestion of

Knysna (Tauraco corythaix) and purple-crested (Gallirex porphyreolophus) turacos.

MSc converted to PhD. Completed, supervisor.

57. King, Helen. 2006-2007. Thermal physiology and predicted distribution of Zygogramma

bicolorata (Chrysomelidae), a promising agent for the biological control of the

invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus in South Africa. MSc completed, co-

supervisor. 58. Wellmann, Andrea. 2006-2007. Aspects of nocturnal physiology and behaviour in malachite

sunbirds (Nectarinia famosa). MSc completed supervisor.

59. Lindsay, Claire, V. 2006-2007. Altitudinal and seasonal variation in Amethyst Sunbird

physiology. MSc completed, supervisor.

60. du Plessis, Lynn. 2005-2006. Presentation and interpretation of arrow symbolism in Biology

diagrams at secondary level. PhD. Part-time, co-supervisor, completed.

61. Grey, Rebecca. 2005-2006. Aspects of the conservation of oribi (Ourebia ourebi). MSc

completed, supervisor.

62. Bowker, Meyrick. 2005-2006. Conservation of the great white pelican (Pelecanus

onocrotalus) and the pink-backed pelican (P. rufescens) in South Eastern Africa. MSc


63. Burton, Steve 2005-2006. Comparative aspects of the thermal biology of African and

Australian parrots. MSc completed, co-supervisor.

64. Tennent, Jaclyn. 2004-2005. Feral cats (Felis catus) in an urban conservancy: University of

KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus. MSc completed, supervisor.

65. Coates, Greg 2002-2003. Bushbuck ecology and management at Shongweni Dam and Game

Reserve. MSc completed, supervisor.

66. Brown, Kelly 2002-2003. Seasonal variation in the thermal biology of the rock hyrax

(Procavia capensis). MSc completed, supervisor.

67. McMaster, Megan 1997-2001. The status and ecology of the leopard tortoise Geochelone

pardalis on farmland in the Nama-Karoo. MSc completed, supervisor.

68. Symes, Craig T. 1999-2001. Biology of Grey-headed Parrots Poicephalus fuscicollis

suahelicus Reichnow. MSc completed, co-supervisor.

33

69. Mbatha, Khanyisile. R. 1999-2000. The effects of tannins on the physiology of Boer-goats.

MSc completed, supervisor.

70. Brown, Mark 1998-1999. Thermoregulation in breeding crowned plovers (Vanellus

coronatus). MSc completed, supervisor.

71. Calf, Kathy 1998-1999. The Ecology of Sugarbirds. MSc. thesis, Zoology Department,

University of Stellenbosch, co-supervisor. MSc completed.

72. Mzilikazi, Kwezi 1999-2000. The influence of gender on thermoregulation of pouched mice

(Saccostomus campestris). MSc completed, co-supervisor.

PhD (dates indicate start year & end year)

1. Manqele, Nomthandazo Samantha 2018. Assessing poisoning and local trade in vultures in

southern Africa and changing human behaviour and attitudes toward vultures. In

progress Supervisor.

2. Sosibo, Mbalenhle Thabile 2018 mid. Diversity of fish communities in KwaZulu-Natal rivers

under anthropogenic change. In progress, supervisor.

3. Malingana, Ndivhuwo 2018 mid. Assessing the risk of alien small mammals in the South

African pet trade. In progress Supervisor.

4. Shivambu, Cavin 2018 mid. Invasive rose-ringed parakeets Psittacula krameri in KwaZulu-

Natal Province. In progress Supervisor.

5. Ngcobo, Samke 2018 mid. Mammalian faunal assessment of the Afromontane forests of the

Midland, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. In progress Supervisor.

6. Maseko, Mfundo 2018 mid. Mammalian faunal assessment of the Afromontane forests of the

former Transkei, Eastern Cape, South Africa. In progress Supervisor.

7. Gumede, Thobeka 2018. Avian faunal assessment of the Afromontane forests of the former

Transkei, Eastern Cape, South Africa. In progress Supervisor.

8. Reson, Eric 2018. Determining drivers of poisoning and quantifying its extent as a threat to

the critically Endangered Gyps species in southern Kenya. PhD in progress,

supervisor.

9. Robson, Gary 2017. Comparative ecology, life strategy, biogeography, phylogeography and

evolution of Scutellastra aphanes and S. obtecta. PhD in progress, supervisor.

10. Pillay, Kerushka. 2016. The impacts of changing land use on vervet monkeys in Ethekweni. PhD

in progress, supervisor.

11. Alexander, Jarryd 2016. The impacts of changing land use on vertebrate biodiversity: conversion of

monocultures to eco-estates. PhD in progress, supervisor.

12. Senoge, Ntaki. 2016. Birds expanding their range with changing land use: pied crows. PhD in

progress supervisor.

13. Desai Mahomed 2016. Ecological Risk Assessment framework to manage fish communities in river

dominated estuaries in KwaZulu-Natal. PhD in progress co-supervisor.

14. Zungu, Manqoba M. 2016. The effects of fragmentation on forest-dependent mammal

occupancy and ecological connectivity within the eThekwini Municipality PhD in

progress, supervisor.

15. Thatcher, Harriet R. 2016. The effect of human disturbance and urbanization on the stress

levels and behaviour of wild vervet monkeys, Cercopithecus aethiops. PhD in


16. Price, Cormac 2016. Aspects of the ecology of two understudied freshwater terrapins;

Pelomedusa subrufa and Pelusios sinuatus, in order to evaluate their conservation and

management. PhD in progress, supervisor.

17. Maphalala, Machawe 2016. Habitat use of Long-crested Eagle with changing land use. PhD in


18. Thabethe, Vuyisile. 2015. Birds expanding their range with changing land use: woolly necked

storks in KZN. PhD in progress, supervisor.

34

19. Jacobs, Francois 2015-2017. Aspects of tigerfish ecology in northern Namibia. PhD


20. Jordan, Lara 2015-2017. “Bridging the gap” for the South African Wattled Cranes: population

health and biology as it relates to captivity and release. PhD completed, supervisor.

21. Agboola, Olalekan Akinwumi 2014 (Sept)-2017. Aspects of River Health in KwaZulu-Natal.

PhD completed, co-supervisor

22. Mhlanga, Mlamuleli 2014-2017. Population status & ecology of the spotted hyena (Crocuta

crocuta) in relation to prey abundance, land use changes and conflicts with humans.

PhD completed, supervisor.

23. Patterson, Lindsay 2015-2017. Aspects of the ecology of vervet monkeys Cercopithecus

aethiops pygerythrus in a peri-urban environment. PhD Completed, supervisor.

24. Vezi, Madonna 2014-2017. Use of invertebrates to evaluate the threat of water resource use

on the wellbeing of river dominated estuaries in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PhD

complete, co-supervisor

25. Ehlers-Smith, Yvette 2014-2016. Assessing anthropogenic impacts on the persistence of

forest mammals within the Indian Ocean Coastal Belt of southern KwaZulu-Natal

Province. PhD completed, supervisor.

26. Pfeiffer, Morgan 2014-2016. Ecology and conservation of the Cape vulture in the Eastern

Cape Province, South Africa. PhD completed, supervisor

27. McPherson, Shane 2014-2015. Urban ecology of the crowned eagle (Stephanoaetus

coronatus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PhD completed, supervisor.

28. Widdows, Craig 2014-2015. Ecology of large-spotted genets within an urban landscape. PhD

completed, supervisor

29. Combrink, Leigh 2013-2016. The habitat, nesting and foraging requirements of southern

ground-hornbills in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. PhD completed,

supervisor.

30. Chibesa, Moses 2013-2016. Aspects of the ecology of trumpeter hornbill (Bycanistes

bucinator) across urban-forest mosaics in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PhD


31. Coetzer, Riel 2013-2015. Systematics and phylogeography of the Cape Parrot (Poicephalus

robustus). PhD completed, Co-supervisor

32. Brown, Kelly 2012-2016. Students’ competence and understanding of scientific method in the

Life Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. PhD completed, supervisor.

33. Thompson, Lindy 2012-2014. Flexibility in metabolic rate in a small Afrotropical bird

Zosterops virens. PhD completed, supervisor.

34. Mzumara, Tiwonge 2010-2014. The ecology and conservation biology of Lilian’s Lovebird

Agapornis lilianae in Malawi. PhD completed, supervisor.

35. Calverley, Peter. 2011-2013. The conservation ecology of the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus

niloticus) in the Ndumu Game Reserve in North Eastern KwaZulu-Natal and the Rio

Maputo Floodplain in South Eastern Mozambique. PhD completed, supervisor.

36. Jordaan, Lorinda. 2009-2011. Fleshy-fruited alien plants and frugivores in South Africa. PhD


37. Chama, Lackson. 2009-2012. Plant-frugivore interactions in a heterogeneous forest landscape

of South Africa. PhD completed, Philipps-Universität Marburg University, Germany,

co-supervisor.

38. Combrink, A.S. Xander. 2009-2014. Spatial and reproductive ecology and population status

of the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) in the Lake St Lucia estuarine system,

South Africa. PhD completed, supervisor.

39. Warner, Jonathan. 2009-2015. Morphometrics, ecotoxicology and stable isotope ecology of

Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PhD


35

40. Wilson, Amy-Leigh, 2009-2010. Aspects of the thermal physiology and fruit digestion of

Knysna (Tauraco corythaix) and purple-crested (Gallirex porphyreolophus) turacos.

PhD completed, supervisor.

41. Brown, Mark. 2007-2009. Nectar preferences of specialist and occasional avian nectarivores,

and their role in the evolution of floral traits. PhD completed, co-supervisor.

42. Tsvuura, Zivanai 2007-2009. The influence of the monocarpic herb, Isoglossa woodii, on

subtropical forest tree dynamics and diversity. PhD completed, co-supervisor.

43. Volampeno, Sylviana. 2006-2009. Reproductive behaviour and habitat use in the blue-eyed

black lemur (Eulemur macaco flavifrons, Gray, 1867) at the Sahamalaza Peninsula,

National Park Madagascar. PhD completed, supervisor.

44. Wimberger, Kirsten. 2006-2008. Wildlife rehabilitation in South Africa. PhD completed,

supervisor.

45. Coleman, Joy 2006-2008. The integrated physiology and behaviour of Thallomys nigricauda

along an aridity gradient. PhD completed, supervisor.

46. McMaster, M. 2003-2007. The behavioural thermoregulation and ecophysiology of the

leopard tortoise (Geochelone pardalis) in the Nama-Karoo. PhD completed,

supervisor. 47. Soobramoney, Shernice. 1999-2002. Population variability in the fiscal shrikes Lanius

collaris. PhD completed, supervisor.

48. Du Plessis, Aubrey 2001. The use and abuse of arrows in textbook diagrams. M.Sc Upgraded

to PhD completed 2006. co-supervisor.

Postdoctoral

Soobramoney, Shernice. 2003. Supervisor

Coleman, Joy. 2009. Supervisor

Grieve, Graham 2009-2017. Supervisor

Blanco, Oscar 2010-2011 Supervisor

Wilson, Amy–Leigh 2011-2016. Supervisor

Hart, Lorinda 2012-2017. Supervisor

Ramesh, Tharmalingam 2012-2016. Supervisor

Kalle, Riddhika 2014-2016. Supervisor.

Kirby, Nicki 2014-2016. Co-supervisor.

Ehlers-Smith, David 2015-2018. Supervisor.

Thompson, Lindy 2015-2017. Supervisor.

McPherson, Shane 2016-2018. Supervisor.

Ehlers Smith, Yvette 2017-2019. Supervisor.

Chibesa, Moses 2017. Supervisor.

Combrink, Leigh 2017 (partial). Supervisor.

Conference Presentations:

International plenary/keynote addresses

1. Downs, C.T. 2010. Effect of sugar type and concentration on diet choice and digestion in a

range of South African avian frugivores. 5th International Frugivory and Seed Dispersal

Symposium, Montpellier, France. June. Invited plenary speaker.

International Conferences (Since 1997)

1. Ehlers Smith D.A., Colyn, R., Ehlers Smith, Y.C., Smit-Robinson, H., Downs, C.T. 2018.

Predictive distribution models of avian forest specialists provide a framework for

36

promoting conservation and connectivity of critically endangered forest types under

future climate change scenarios. International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver,

Canada.

2. Maseko, M., Zungu, M., Ehlers Smith, D.A., Ehlers Smith, Y.C., & Downs, C.T. 2017The

effects of habitat-patch size and patch isolation on the diversity of forest birds in

Durban, South Africa. International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver, Canada.

3. Senoge, N. & Downs, C.T. Population abundance estimates of Pied Crow (Corvus albus) in

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver,

Canada.

4. Maphalala, M., Downs, C.T., Monadjem, A., Bildstein, K., McPherson, S. & Hoffman, B.

2018. Effects of land-use changes on aspects of the ecology of long-crested eagles,

including habitat use. International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver, Canada.

5. Thabethe, V. & Downs, C.T. 2018. Supplementary feeding of African woolly-neck storks

(Ciconia microscelis) in KwaZulu-Natal. International Ornithological Congress,

Vancouver, Canada.

6. McPherson, S., Padbury, B., Hoffman, B., & Downs, C.T. 2018. Hazards in the Urban Jungle:

Managing Human-wildlife Conflict of the Crowned Eagle in Durban, South Africa.

International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver, Canada.

7. Downs, C.T. 2018. Cape Parrot distribution and numbers: importance of citizen scientists.

International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver, Canada.

8. Ehlers Smith D.A., Ehlers Smith D.A., & Downs, C.T. 2018. Southern Ground-Hornbill

(Bucorvus leadbeateri) persistence beyond Protected Areas in southern KwaZulu-Natal:

the importance of Indigenous Knowledge in conservation planning. International

Ornithological Congress, Vancouver, Canada.

9. Thompson, L.J., Downs, C.T., Botha, A., Bildstein, K., & Murn, C. 2017. Breeding ecology of

the Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus in the Kruger-to-Canyons Biosphere Region, South

Africa. International Ornithological Congress, Vancouver, Canada.



Africa. Raptor Research Foundation, USA. 11. Hanzen, C., Lucas, M., Downs, C.T. & O’Brien, G. 2017. Changes in distribution and genetic

diversity of Anguillid eels along the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

International Eel Sciences Symposium, London xxth June

12. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y., Downs, C.T. & Ramesh, T. 2016. The impacts of

changing land use on the occurrence of the Endangered spotted ground thrush (Zoothera

guttata) in the coastal forests of southern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PAOC, Dakar

Senegal.

13. McPherson, S., Padbury, B., Hoffman, B., & Downs, C.T. 2016. Hazards in the Urban Jungle:

Managing Human-wildlife Conflict of the Crowned Eagle in Durban, South Africa.

PAOC, Dakar Senegal.

14. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y., & Downs, C. 2016. Forest fragmentation affects avian

species richness and functional communities in South Africa. PAOC, Dakar Senegal.

15. Chibesa, M., Taylor, B., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. Home range, and habitat preference of

Trumpeter Hornbills in the urban-forest mosaic in South Africa. PAOC, Dakar

Senegal.

16. Downs, C.T. 2016. Cape parrot distribution and numbers: The importance of citizen

scientists. PAOC, Dakar Senegal.

17. Willows-Munro, S., Coetzer, W.G., Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2016. Molecular systematics

of the Cape parrot (Poicephalus robustus). PAOC, Dakar Senegal.

18. Drabik-Hamshare, M. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Movement, home range and habitat use as a

consequence of climatic variables in leopard tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis). World

Herpetology Congress, August, China.

37

19. Downs, C. T. 2016. Too hot to sleep? Sleep behaviour and surface body temperature of

Wahlberg's epauletted fruit bat. International Bat Research Conference, August,

Durban, South Africa.

20. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Downs, C.T. and Ramesh, T. 2016. Anthropogenic

impacts on forest duiker occupancy within a mixed land use forest mosaic, South

Africa. American Society of Mammalogists, 24-28 June, University of Minnesota,

Minneapolis.

21. Downs, C.T., Combrink, X., Warner, J.K., Calverley, P., Champion, G. & Summers, M. 2016.

Status of Nile Crocodile in North Eastern KwaZulu-Natal and Conservation

Management Recommendations. IUCN Crocodile Specialist Meeting Skukuza.

22. Combrink, X. Warner, J.K., Calverley, P., Champion, G., Summers, M., & Downs, C.T. 2016.

The past, present and future of the Nile Crocodile in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South

Africa. IUCN Crocodile Specialist Meeting Skukuza.

23. Warner, J. Combrink, X., Myburgh, J. & Downs, C.T. Blood lead concentrations in free-

ranging Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) from South Africa. . IUCN Crocodile

Specialist Meeting Skukuza.

24. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J., Krueger, S., Berens, D. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Using Flight Behavior

as a Tool for Wind Energy Development: A Case Study Using an Endangered African

Vulture Species. 72nd Annual Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

Annapolis, Maryland

25. Ramesh, T. Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Spatiotemporal variation in resource selection of

servals: insights from a landscape under heavy land-use transformation. International

Species on the Move Conference in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, 9-12 February 2016.

26. Kalle, R., Combrink, L. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Cothreatened hosts and parasites causes range

contraction of an avian mutualist. International Species on the Move Conference in

Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, 9-12 February 2016.

27. Chibesa, M., Downs, C.T., Rouget, M., Taylor, B. & Ramesh, T. 2015. GPS telemetry of the

Trumpeter Hornbill (Bycanistes bucinator): Habitat use, foraging and movement in

urban environments of Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. 6th

International Symposium- Workshop on Frugivores & Seed Dispersal, Alpine Heath,

June.

28. Hart, L.A., Johnson, S.D., Downs, C.T. 2015. The effect of Wahlberg's Epauletted Fruit Bats

(Epomophorus wahlbergi) on alien invasive seed germination and their potential as

dispersal agents. 6th International Symposium- Workshop on Frugivores & Seed

Dispersal, Alpine Heath, June.

29. Mokotjomela, T.M, Hoffmann, J.H. & Downs C.T. The potential for birds to disperse the

seeds of Acacia cyclops, an invasive alien plant in South Africa. 6th International

Symposium- Workshop on Frugivores & Seed Dispersal, Alpine Heath, June.

30. Thabethe, V., Wilson, A-L., Hart, L.A. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Effect of invasive and

indigenous avian species on seed germination of fleshy-fruited invasive alien plants in

South Africa. 6th International Symposium- Workshop on Frugivores & Seed Dispersal,

Alpine Heath, June.

31. Wilson, A-L., Shuttleworth, A. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Assimilation efficiency of the Red-

winged Starling Onychognathus morio fed Strelitzia nicolai arils. 6th International

Symposium- Workshop on Frugivores & Seed Dispersal, Alpine Heath, June.

32. Zungu, M.M. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Effects of tannins on fruit selection in three southern

African frugivorous birds. 6th International Symposium- Workshop on Frugivores &

Seed Dispersal, Alpine Heath, June.

33. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Importance of wetland, forest and patch richness for a

population of servals in a fragmented landscape in South Africa. The Wildlife Society

21st Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

38

34. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Foraging range and habitat use of adult Cape

Vultures Gyps coprotheres in communal farmland in South Africa. The Wildlife

Society 21st Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

35. Thompson, L. Brown, M & Downs, C.T. 2014. Seasonal variation in basal metabolic rate,

respiratory quotient and evaporative water loss in the Cape White-eye, Zosterops

pallidus. 5th International Symposium on the Physiology and Pharmacology of

Temperature Regulation, Skukuza.

36. Mzumara, T., Perrin, M.R., & Downs, C.T. 2014. Threats to Lilian’s Lovebird Agapornis

lilianae in Malawi: Disease, predators & waterhole poisoning. International

Ornithological Congress, Japan.



pallidus. International Ornithological Congress, Japan.

38. Combrink, X., Warner, J., Taylor, R. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Movements and activity levels of

Nile Crocodiles in the Lake St Lucia estuarine system, South Africa. IUCN-SSC

Crocodile Specialist Group May 2014, McNeese State University, Louisiana, USA.

39. Downs, C.T., Awuah, A., Paine, C., Magagula, L., Mkhize, T., Raymond-Bourret, E. 2013.

Effects of extreme hot days on the sleep behaviour and surface body temperature of

Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat. International Mammal Conference, Belfast, UK.

40. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Effect of farmland use on population density and activity patterns

serval. International Mammal Conference, Belfast, UK.

41. Widdows, C. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Ecology of large spotted genets (Genetta tigrina) in an urban

environment. International Mammal Conference, Belfast, UK.

42. Bowker, M. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Breeding of large, water-associated, colonially nesting

birds of the north-eastern region of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Pan African

Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha, Tanzania.

43. Wilson, A-L & Downs, C.T. 2012. Food intake rates, assimilation efficiency, and transit times

of Knysna (Tauraco corythaix) Turacos fed South African indigenous fruit. Pan African

Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha, Tanzania.

44. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Foraging range, breeding success, and

community perceptions of the Cape vulture in the Mkambati Nature Reserve, Eastern

Cape Province. Pan African Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha, Tanzania.

45. Wreford, E., Altwegg, D., Downs, C.T., Brown, M. 2012. The relationship between land

cover and distribution of Black Sparrowhawks (Accipiter melanoleucus) in South

Africa. Pan African Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha, Tanzania.

46. Thabethe, V., Thompson, L., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Seasonal differences in basal

metabolic rate and body temperature in Rose-ringed Parakeets (Psittacula krameri). Pan

African Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha, Tanzania.

47. Mzumara, T. & Downs, C.T. 2012. The Lilian’s lovebird as an agricultural pest and as a

victim of poison hunting in Liwonde National Park and the surrounding communities.

Pan African Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha, Tanzania.

48. Jordaan, L. & Downs, C.T. 2012. Forbidden fruit taste sweetest...

why birds feed on invasive alien fruits. Pan African Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha,

Tanzania.

49. Zungu, M.M., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2012. Seasonal thermoregulation in the burrowing

parrot (Cyanoliseus patagonus). Pan African Ornithological Congress 13, Arusha,

Tanzania.

50. McPherson, S., Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2012. The urban crowned eagle Stephanoaetus

coronatus in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Pan African Ornithological Congress 13,

Arusha, Tanzania.

39

51. Chama, L., Berens, D.G., Downs, C.T. & Farwig, N. 2012. Consequences of forest

modification on structure and robustness of plant-frugivore networks. Annual Conference

of the Society for Tropical Ecology, Erlangen, Germany, February.

52. Pelaez, N.J., Downs, C.T. & Anderson, T.R. 2011. Deviating from the Standard: Integrating

Experimental Design into Life Science Education. Society for the Advancement of

Biology Education Research (SABER), July 29-31, University of Minnesota East

campus.

53. Downs, C.T., Brown, M., & Zungu, M.M. 2011. Seasonal effects on thermoregulatory

abilities of the Wahlberg’s epaulette fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) in KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa. African Small Mammal Symposium, July, Swaziland.

54. Warner, J.K., Myburgh, J., Taylor, R. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Ecotoxicology, nutrition and

threats to Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus Niloticus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. IUCN

20th Crocodile Specialist meeting, Manaus, Brazil.

55. Combrink, A.S., Warner, J.K., Taylor, R. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Spatial & Reproductive

Ecology, Habitat Use & Population Dynamics of the Nile crocodile at Lake St. Lucia,

South Africa. IUCN 20th Crocodile Specialist meeting, Manaus, Brazil.

56. Wimberger, K. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Post-release success of two rehabilitated vervet monkey

(Chlorocebus aethiops) troops in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. International

Primatology Conference, Japan

57. Jordaan, L. & Downs, C.T. 2010. The potential role of various southern African frugivores as

dispersers of alien invasive fruit and their effect on germination rates. International

Ornithological Conference, Sao Paulo, Brazil, September.

58. Botzat, A., Fischer, L. Neuschulz, E.L., Downs, C.T. & Farwig, N. 2010. The role of seed

fate in South African scarp forest regeneration. 5th International Frugivory and Seed

Dispersal Symposium, Montpellier, France. June.

59. Wilson, A-L. & Downs, C.T. 2010. The effect of seed packaging on digestion and food

preference by Purple-crested (Gallirex porphyreolophus) and Knysna Turacos (Tauraco

corythaix). 5th International Frugivory and Seed Dispersal Symposium, Montpellier,

France. June.


dispersers of alien invasive fruit and their effect on germination rates. 5th International

Frugivory and Seed Dispersal Symposium, Montpellier, France. June.

61. Lindsay, C.V., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2008. A comparison of summer and winter

metabolic rates of amethyst sunbirds (Chalcomitra amethystina) over an altitudinal

gradient. PAOC, Wellington, SA.

62. Wellmann, A.E., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2008. Diel variations in blood glucose levels in

malachite sunbirds at different temperatures. PAOC, Wellington, SA

63. Lindsay, C.V., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2008. A comparison of summer and winter

metabolic rates of amethyst sunbirds (Chalcomitra amethystina) over an altitudinal

gradient. Masi-Mara Comparative Physiology Conference, Kenya.

64. Wellmann, A.E., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2008. Diel variations in blood glucose levels in

malachite sunbirds at different temperatures. Masi-Mara Comparative Physiology

Conference, Kenya.

65. Downs, C.T. 2006. Moving away from a lecture-mode to a tutorial-skills based mode:

experiences of a 1st year Biology course at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. ERIDOB London.

66. Boix-Hinzen, C. Downs, CT & Brown, M. 2005. Morphology and functional significance of

air bags in hornbill nestlings. Hornbill International Conference South Africa.

67. McMaster, M. & Downs, CT 2005. Thermoregulation in Leopard Tortoises. International

Herpetological Conference, Stellenbosch.

40

68. Soobramoney, S. & Downs, C.T. 2005. Lipid-rich versus sugar-rich fruits: effects on

digestive efficiency and food choice of the Redwinged Starling Onychognathus morio.

Brisbane, Australia.

69. Boix-Hinzen, C. Downs, CT & Brown, M. 2004. Morphology And Functional Significance

Of Air Bags In Hornbill Nestlings. Third International Conference of Comparative

Physiology and Biochemistry in Africa, Itala Game Reserve, South Africa.

70. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 2004. Thermal Behaviour and Maintenance of Stable Body

Temperatures by Leopard Tortoises (Geochelone pardalis) in the Nama-Karoo. Third

International Conference of Comparative Physiology and Biochemistry in Africa, Itala

Game Reserve, South Africa.

71. Brown, M. & Downs, C.T. 2001 The role of behavior in the thermoregulation of breeding

Crowned Plovers. International Physiology Conference, Chobe, Botswana.

72. Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2001. Nocturnal Heterothermy And Torpor In The Malachite

Sunbird (Nectarinia famosa, Passeriformes). International Physiology Conference,

Chobe, Botswana.

73. Downs, C.T., Wirminghaus_, J.O., Symes, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 2000. Diet of the Endangered

Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus in afromontane forests in KwaZulu-Natal South

Africa. 3RD International Symposium-Workshop on Frugivores and Seed Dispersal, Sao

Paulo, Brazil.

74. Buffenstein, R., Frean, J.L., Lamond, F.J.D, Yahav, S. & Downs, C.T. 1999. Morphology

and physiology of the digestive system of the black-tailed tree rat, Thallomys nigricauda;

with evidence of two functional fibre fermentation chambers. African small Mammal

Symposium, Paris, France.

75. Williams, l. & Downs, C.T. 1999. Water turnover in a mesic rodent (Aethomys

chrysophilus)- the effect of high and low protein diets. African small Mammal

Symposium, Paris, France.

76. Symes, C., Wirminghaus, the late J.O., Downs, C.T., & Perrin, M.R. 1998. The taxonomic

status of the Cape Parrot, Poicephalus r. robustus (Gmelin). International Ornithological

Congress, Durban.

77. Downs, C.T., Wirminghaus, the late J.O., Symes, C., & Perrin, M.R. 1998. The importance

of Podocarpus spp. to the Cape Parrot Poicephalus r. robustus (Gmelin). International

Ornithological Congress, Durban.

78. McMaster, M. & Downs, C.T. 1998. Changes in body composition, diet and breeding cycles

of a rodent population in acacia woodland. 6th International Conference Rodens and

Spatium, Acre, Israel.

79. Downs, C.T. & Ward, D. 1997. Does shading behaviour of incubating shorebirds in hot

environments cool the eggs or the adults? International Comparative Physiology

Conference, Skukuza.

80. Inglis, M., Akhurst, J., Downs, C.T., and Drummond, A. 1997. The development of reading

and writing tasks in a life science course, informed by ongoing assessment of students’

background knowledge. British Association of Applied Linguistics Conference,

Birmingham, U.K.

National plenary/keynote addresses

1. Downs, C.T. 2017. The importance of curiosity in birding. Birdlife SA AGM, Plenary

address.

2. Downs, C.T. 2013. The importance of ecology and physiology in a changing world:

Wahlberg´s epauletted Fruit Bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) as an example. Zoological

Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo. Plenary address.

41

Local Conferences (since 1997)

1. Gumede, T., & Downs, C.T. 2017. Dietary preference of the common myna, an invasive alien

bird in South Africa. CIB Annual Research Meeting, Stellenbosch.

2. Ngcobo, S. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Home range size and habitat use of Cape porcupines on

farmland and suburban areas of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. 8th Annual Oppenheimer

De Beers Group Research Conference, Johannesburg.

3. Maseko, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. The effects of habitat-patch size and

patch isolation on the diversity of forest birds in Durban, South Africa. 2017 Symposium

of Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.


microhabitat structure in maintaining forest mammal diversity in a mixed land-use

mosaic. 2017 Symposium of Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW,

Pietermaritzburg.

5. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Forest habitats in a

mixed urban-agriculture mosaic landscape: patterns of mammal occupancy. 2017

Symposium of Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

6. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y., & Downs, C.T. 2017. Camera-trap data elucidate habitat

requirements and conservation threats to an endangered forest specialist, the spotted

ground thrush (Zoothera guttata). 2017 Symposium of Contemporary Conservation

Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

7. Kalle, R., Combrink, L., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Predicting suitable habitats for the

reintroduction of red-billed oxpeckers in South Africa. 2017 Symposium of

Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

8. Ramesh, T., Kalle, R., Rosenlund, H. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Predictors of low leopard

populations in protected areas of Maputaland landscape, South Africa. 2017 Symposium

of Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

9. Zungu, M., Maseko, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T., Rouget, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Impact of

habitat fragmentation on the occupancy of forest mammals in eThekwini Municipality.

2017 Symposium of Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

10. Fritsch, C. & Downs, C.T. 2017. UAV: Unlimited Application Vehicle: An investigation of

the value of UAVs as monitoring tools for large terrestrial species as well as nesting

birds. 2017 Symposium of Contemporary Conservation Practice, EKZNW,

Pietermaritzburg.

11. Maseko, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. The effects of habitat modifications

and fragmentation on forest bird’s occupancy and diversity within the eThekwini

Municipality. 8th Annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research Conference,

Johannesburg.

12. Zungu, M., Maseko, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T., Rouget, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Impact of

habitat fragmentation on the occupancy of forest mammals in eThekwini Municipality.

8th Annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research Conference, Johannesburg.

13. Streicher, J., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Effects of differing land use on the home

range and habitat use of three mongoose species. 8th Annual Oppenheimer De Beers

Group Research Conference, Johannesburg.

14. Jordan, L. Kirkman, K. & Downs, C.T. 2017. A comprehensive analysis of the Gruiformes to

identify their key conservation risks and relate these to their conservation and captive

breeding activities. 8th Annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research Conference,

Johannesburg.

15. Dlamini, P., O’Brien, G. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Fish communities and aspects of the biology

of KwaZulu-Natal yellowfish, Labeobarbus natalensis in the uMngeni River.

Fountainhill Estate Research Symposium, Wartburg.

42

16. Ngcobo, S. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Home range size and habitat use of Cape porcupines on

farmland and suburban areas of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Fountainhill Estate

Research Symposium, Wartburg.

17. Hanzen, C., Lucas, M., Downs, C.T., & O’Brien, G. 2017. Eel research in KZN: a focus on

the Umgeni catchment. Preliminary results and future plans. Fountainhill Estate Research

Symposium, Wartburg.


range and habitat use of three mongoose species. Fountainhill Estate Research




including habitat use particularly when breeding. Fountainhill Estate Research


20. Mkhohlwa, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Quantifying roadkills on different roads of Hluhluwe-

Imfolozi Park; what are the contributing factors. SAWMA, Cape Town.

21. Ehlers Smith, D., Ehlers Smith, Y., & Downs, C.T. 2017. Thresholds in forest-fragment size

are indicated by a reduction in avian functional diversity and forest specialists. ZSSA,

Pretoria.


microhabitat structure in maintaining forest mammal diversity and abundance in a mixed

land-use mosaic. ZSSA Pretoria

23. Thabethe, V. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Supplementary feeding of African woolly-neck storks

(Ciconia microscelis) in KwaZulu-Natal. ZSSA Pretoria

24. Pillay, K. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Aspects of the ecology of vervet monkeys in urban

eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria

25. Maseko, M., Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2017 Response of crested guinea-fowl

(Guttera edouardi), a forest specialist, to spatial variation in land use in iSimangaliso

Wetland Park, South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria

26. Mashele, M., Thompson, L., Downs, C.T. 2017. Assessing threats to African Vultures and the

effectiveness of conservation efforts in the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region,

Mpumalanga, South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria

27. Ngcobo, S. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Home range size and movement patterns of Cape

porcupines in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria



Africa. ZSSA Pretoria



including habitat use particularly when breeding. ZSSA Pretoria

30. Dlamini, P., Zacharides, C. & Downs, C.T. 2017. The effect of frugivorous birds on seed

dispersal and germination of the invasive Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius)

and Indian laurel (Litsea glutinosa). ZSSA Pretoria

31. Senoge, N. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Use of communal roost counts for population estimates of

the invasive Common Myna. ZSSA Pretoria.


range and habitat use of three mongoose species. ZSSA Pretoria

33. Alexander, J. & Downs, C.T. 2017. The effect of eco-estates on animal biodiversity along the

coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria

34. Fritsch, C. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Hippos as Ecosystem Engineers: Habitat use, ecology and

behaviour of hippos in an important waterbody of Zululand. ZSSA Pretoria

43

35. Jordan, L. Kirkman, K. & Downs, C.T. 2017. A comprehensive analysis of the Gruiformes to

identify their key conservation risks and relate these to their conservation and captive

breeding activities. ZSSA Pretoria

36. Cameron, C., Downs, C.T., Armstrong, A., Tarrant, J., Willows-Munro, S. 2017. Determining

population dynamics of the Endangered Kloof Frog, Natalobatrachus bonebergi, through

landscape genetics and monitoring towards improving conservation interventions. ZSSA

Pretoria

37. Mkhohlwa, M. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Quantifying roadkills on different roads of Hluhluwe-

Imfolozi Park; what are the contributing factors. ZSSA Pretoria

38. Singh, P. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Hadeda ibis (Bostrychia hagedash)

urban nesting, roosting and activity in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

ZSSA Pretoria

39. Gumede, T., & Downs, C.T. 2017. Dietary preference of the common myna, an invasive alien

bird in South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria

40. Kheswa, E.Z., Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Habitat use and predator influence

on honey badgers in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. ZSSA Pretoria

41. Thatcher, H., Downs, C.T. & Koyama, N. 2017. Can parasitic load be used to measure the

effect of anthropogenic disturbance on Vervet Monkeys. ZSSA Pretoria

42. Hart, L. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Post-release success and dispersal of rehabilitated birds of

prey. EWT Raptor Conference.

43. Maphalala, M., Downs, C.T., Monadjem, A., & Bildstein, K. 2017. Effects of land-use

changes on aspects of the ecology of long-crested, including habitat use particularly when

breeding. EWT Raptor Conference.



Africa. EWT Raptor Conference.

45. Combrink, X., Downs, C.T., Taylor, R.H. & Warner, J.K. 2017. Movements and activity of

Nile crocodiles in the Lake St Lucia estuarine system. 13th Conference of the

Herpetological Association of Africa. Bonamanzi. 23-27 January 2017.

46. Price, C., O’Brien, G. & Downs, C.T. 2017. Aspects of the spatial and population ecology of

terrapins in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa. 13th Conference of the Herpetological

Association of Africa. Bonamanzi. 23-27 January 2017.

47. Drabik-Hamshare, M & Downs, C.T. 2017. Effects of climatic and environmental variables

on the movement of leopard tortoises in the Karoo, South Africa.13th conference of the

Herpetological Association of Africa. Bonamanzi. 23-27 January 2017.

48. Gumede, T., & Downs, C.T. 2016. Sugar preference in the common myna. CIB annual

Research Meeting, Stellenbosch.

49. Ngcobo, S. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Aspects of the ecology of Cape porcupines in KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa. 7th Annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research Conference,

Johannesburg.

50. Pillay, K., Ramesh, T., & Downs, C.T. 2016. Aspects of the ecology of feral cats in urban

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. 7th annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research

Conference, Johannesburg.

51. Maseko, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2016. The effects of habitat modifications

and fragmentation on forest bird’s occupancy and diversity within the eThekwini

Municipality. 7th annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research Conference,

Johannesburg.

52. Zungu, M., Maseko, M., Kalle, R., Ramesh, T., Rouget, M. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Effects of

habitat fragmentation on forest mammal occupancy and ecological connectivity in

eThekwini Municipality7th annual Oppenheimer De Beers Group Research Conference,

Johannesburg.

44

53. Kheswa, E.Z., Ramesh, T., Kalle, R. & Downs, C.T. 2016. Habitat use and predator influence

on honey badgers in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. SAWMA

54. Combrink, L., Combrink, H.J., Botha, A. & Downs C.T. 2016. Long term monitoring of an

endangered bird: What have Kruger’s Southern Ground-hornbills taught us? Savanna

Science Network Meeting, Skukuza.

55. Chibesa, M., Rouget, M., Taylor, B. Ramesh, T., & Downs, C.T. 2016. GPS telemetry of

Trumpeter Hornbill (Bycanistes bucinator): Foraging behaviour, resource tracking and

movement pattern in the urban – forest environment of Eshowe, South Africa. BirdLife

SA LAB Conference, Skukuza.

56. Combrink, L., Combrink, H.J., Botha, A. & Downs C.T. 2016. Long term monitoring of an

endangered bird: What have Kruger’s Southern Ground-hornbills taught us? BirdLife SA

LAB Conference, Skukuza.

57. Thompson, L., Downs, C.T., Botha, A., Bildstein, K. & Murn, C. 2016. Ecology of the

Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus, in the K2C Biosphere Reserve, South Africa.

BirdLife SA LAB Conference, Skukuza.

58. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Ramesh, T. & Downs, CT. 2015. Assessing the impacts of

changing land-use on forest mammals in the fragmented coastal forests of southern

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Ezemvelo Conference

59. Humphries, B., Ramesh, T., Hill, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Habitat use and home range of

black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) on farmlands in the Midlands of KwaZulu-

Natal, South Africa. 6th Annual Diamond Route Research Conference, Johannesburg.

60. Ehlers Smith, Y., Ehlers Smith, D., Ramesh, T. & Downs, CT. 2015. Assessing the impacts of

changing land-use on forest mammals in the fragmented coastal forests of southern

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Southern African Wildlife Management Association

Symposium, Kimberly.

61. Coetzer, R., Perrin, M.R., Downs, C.T., Willows-Munro, S. 2015. Phylogeography of the

South African endemic Cape Parrot (Poicephalus robustus). Southern African Wildlife

Management Association Symposium, Kimberly.

62. Coetzer, R., Perrin, M.R., Downs, C.T., Willows-Munro, S. 2015. Molecular systematics of

the Cape Parrot (Poicephalus robustus robustus): implications for taxonomy and

conservation. ZSSA Grahamstown.

63. Downs, C. T., Awuah, A., Jordaan, M., Magagula, L., Mkhize, T., Paine, C., Raymond-

Bourret, E. & Hart, L. 2015. Too hot to sleep? Sleep behaviour and surface body

temperature of Wahlberg's epauletted fruit bat. ZSSA Grahamstown.

64. Pillay, K., Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2015. Home range and habitat use of feral cats along

an urban gradient in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. ZSSA Grahamstown.

65. Rouget, M. et al. Managing threatened ecosystems in urban environments: Implementation of

a science-action partnership. Symposium of Contemporary Conservation Practice,

EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

66. Combrink, X., Warner, J., Taylor, R. & Downs, C.T. 2014. Home range of Nile Crocodiles in

the Lake St Lucia estuarine system, South Africa. Symposium of Contemporary

Conservation Practice, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

67. McPherson, S., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2014. The Ecology of Urban Crowned Eagles of

KwaZulu-Natal. Ethekweni Symposium, Durban. Chosen as best student presentation.


Vultures Gyps coprotheres in communal farmland in South Africa. Southern African

Wildlife Management Association, Port Elizabeth.



pallidus. Birdlife SA Flock, Drakensberg.

45


Vultures Gyps coprotheres in communal farmland in South Africa. Endangered Wildlife

Trust, Namibia.

71. Coetzer, R., Perrin, M.R., Downs, C.T., Willows-Munro, S. 2013. The use of microsatellites

to address taxonomic and illegal trade in Cape Parrots (Poicephalus robustus).

72. Coetzer, R., Perrin, M.R., Downs, C.T., Willows-Munro, S. 2013. Cape Parrot genetics.

Zoological Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

73. McPherson, S., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2013. The Ecology of Urban Crowned Eagles of

KwaZulu-Natal. Zoological Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

74. Mzumara, T., Perrin, M.R., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Distribution of Lilian’s lovebirds in

Malawi: The role of water availability and vegetation type. Zoological Society of

Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

75. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Investigations of the complex human-wildlife

interactions of the Cape Vulture in the former Transkei, South Africa. Zoological Society of

Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

76. Ramesh, T. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Effect of farmland use on population density and activity patterns

serval. Zoological Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

77. Singh, P. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Hadedas in the hood: Hadeda Ibis (Bostrychia hagedash)

activity in suburban neighbourhoods of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.


78. Thabethe, V., Thompson, L., Hart, L., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Seasonal effects in the

thermoregulation of invasive Rose-ringed parakeets (Psittacula krameri). Zoological

Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

79. Thompson, L., Brown, M., & Downs, C.T. 2013. Seasonal variation in metabolic rate of Cape White-

eyes, Zosterops pallidus. Zoological Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

80. Widdows, C. & Downs, C.T. 2013. Ecology of large spotted genets (Genetta tigrina) in an urban

environment. Zoological Society of Southern Africa Conference, Limpopo.

81. Zungu, M.M. & Downs, C.T. 2013. The role of ethanol in fruit selection by frugivores.


82. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J., and Downs, C.T. 2013. Community perceptions of the Cape Vulture in the

Mkambati Nature Reserve, Eastern Cape Province. Endangered Wildlife Trust Symposium,

Limpopo.

83. Brown, K. & Downs, C.T. 2012. What are they ‘thinking’ about? Exploring undergraduates

understanding of aspects of the scientific method in a first-year biology cohort. UKZN Teaching

and Learning Conference, September, Howard College Campus.

84. Pfeiffer, M., Venter, J., and Downs, C.T. 2012. Foraging range, breeding success, and community

perceptions of the Cape Vulture in the Mkambati Nature Reserve, Eastern Cape Province. The

Southern African Wildlife Management Association (SAWMA) Symposium.

85. Mqokeli, B.R. & Downs, C.T. 2011. Buccal and lingual adaptations for frugivory and nectarivory in

Wahlberg’s epauletted fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi).Microscope Society of Southern Africa, Pretoria, December

86. Downs, C.T., Brown, M., & Zungu, M.M. Seasonal effects on thermoregulatory abilities of

the Wahlberg’s epaulette fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) in KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. ZSSA, July, Stellenbosch.

87. Hart, J., Downs, C.T., Cliff, G. & Mann, B.Q. 2011. The occurrence of whale sharks

(Rhincodon typus) along the KwaZulu-Natal coast of South Africa. Shark Conference,

Durban.

88. Wimberger, K., Armstrong, A.J., and Downs CT. 2010. Can rehabilitated leopard tortoises be

successfully released into the wild? KZN Biodiversity Conservation Symposium,

EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg

89. Bowker, M.B., Downs, C.T. 2010. Status of nesting sites of large colonially breeding birds in

Zululand. KZN Biodiversity Conservation Symposium, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

46

90. Combrink, A.S., Taylor, R., Kyle, S., Warner, J., Downs, C.T. 2010. Spatial and reproductive

ecology, habitat use and population dynamics of the Nile Crocodile at St Lucia. KZN

Biodiversity Conservation Symposium, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

91. Warner, J.K., Myburgh, J., Taylor, R. & Downs, C.T. 2010. Ecotoxicology, nutrition and

threats to Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus Niloticus) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. KZN

Biodiversity Conservation Symposium, EKZNW, Pietermaritzburg.

92. Wilson, A-L. & Downs, C.T. 2009. Effects of artificial sugar types on digestion and food

preference by Knysna (Tauraco corythaix) and Purple-crested (Gallirex

porphyreolophus) Turacos. Zoological Society of Southern Africa 50th Anniversary

Conference, Illovo Beach, July 2009.

93. Lindsay, C.V., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2009. Seasonal variation in hematocrit levels of

amethyst sunbirds (Chalcomitra amethystina) over an altitudinal gradient. Zoological

Society of Southern Africa 50th Anniversary Conference, Illovo Beach, July 2009.


dispersers of alien invasive fruit and their effect on germination rates. Zoological Society

of Southern Africa 50th Anniversary Conference, Illovo Beach, July 2009.

95. Coleman, J.C. & Downs, C.T. Characterising the thermal environment of small mammalian

endotherms: what should we be measuring, and how? Zoological Society of Southern

Africa 50th Anniversary Conference, Illovo Beach, July 2009.

96. Ally, E. & Downs, C.T. 2009. Does sugar type and concentration affect food selection by

frugivorous South African birds: a combined methodology approach. Zoological Society

of Southern Africa 50th Anniversary Conference, Illovo Beach, July 2009.

97. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2008. Conservation of Cape Parrots. KZN Biodiversity

Conservation Symposium, November, Pietermaritzburg.

98. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2008. Pelicans provide a challenge for an integrated approach

to Protected Area management and for transboundary conservation. KZN Biodiversity

Conservation Symposium, November, Pietermaritzburg.

99. Wimberger, K., Armstrong, A., Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Can rehabilitated leopard

tortoises be successfully re-introduced into the wild? HAA, November, Sterkfontein

Dam.

100. Downs, C.T. 2009. Moving away from a lecture-mode to a tutorial-skills based mode:

experiences of a 1st year Biology course at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South

Africa. Education Conference, Westville campus, September, UKZN.

101. Wimberger, K., Perrin, M.R. & Downs, C.T. 2008. Post release success of 2 troops of

rehabilitated vervet monkeys. PEGG, June, Pilgrims Rest.

102. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2007. Fluctuations in the numbers of Great White Pelicans on

Lake St. Lucia in response to changing lake levels: implications for lake management

strategy and conservation of pelicans. ZSSA Potchefstroom.

103. Lindsay, C., Downs, C.T. & Brown, M. 2007. Altitudinal variation in Amethyst sunbirds

(Chalcomitra amethystina) in winter. ZSSA Potchefstroom.

104. Wellmann, A. & Downs, C.T. 2007. Sugar preferences and digestion by Cape White-eyes

(Zosterops pallidus) on artificial glucose and sucrose fruit diets. . ZSSA Potchefstroom.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Public talks and seminars- since 2007

1. Downs, C.T. 2017. The importance of curiosity. Guest speaker at Mtinzini Primary School

Annual Prizegiving,

2. Downs, C.T. 2017. Nile Crocodiles in KwaZulu-Natal. Crocworld Conservation Centre

3. Downs, C.T. 2017. Persistence of wildlife in urban areas: A KwaZulu-Natal perspective.

47

National Science Week, UKZN, PMB campus.

4. Downs, C.T. 2017. Biodiversity. National Science Week, UKZN, Westville campus.

5. Downs, C.T. 2017. Cape Parrot Distribution: Importance of Citizen Scientists. Crocworld

Conservation Centre

6. Downs, C.T. 2017. Urban ecosystems: An overview of urban biodiversity research. BirdLife

Port Natal AGM Feb

7. Downs, C.T. 2016. Urban ecosystems- novel or not? An overview of urban biodiversity

research. School of Life Sciences, Annual Research Day.

8. Downs, C.T. 2016. The importance of curiosity in Biology. St Charles, Pietermaritzburg.

9. Downs, C.T. 2016. The importance of curiosity in Biology. Eston-Thonville Garden Club,

Manderston.

10. Downs, C.T. 2015. The importance of citizen scientists in counting Cape parrots. BirdLife

Northern Natal, Newscastle, October

11. Downs, C.T. 2015. The importance of citizen scientists in counting Cape parrots. Diamond

Route Conference, October.

12. Downs, C.T. 2015. The Downs family in Richmond KZN. Richmond Historical Society May.

13. Downs, CT. 2014. Women in Science. National Science Week Programme, Durban Natural

Science Museum, Durban.

14. Downs, C.T. 2014. Postgraduate supervision. UKZN Induction Programme, UKZ,

Pietermaritzburg.

15. Downs, CT. 2014. Biodiversity in a changing world. Golden Key Biodiversity Day, UKZN,

Pietermaritzburg.


Wahlberg´s epauletted Fruit Bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) as an example. Amber

Conservancy Howick, February 2014.

17. Downs, C.T. 2013. Overview of Research. Girl Guides Association, Hilton November 2013.


Wahlberg´s epauletted Fruit Bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) as an example. Royal

society of Southern Africa, Pietermaritzburg.

19. Downs, C.T. 2013. Highlights from Tanzania. St Alpheges Church, Pietermaritzburg, July.

20. Downs, C.T. 2013 Cape Parrot. SANParks Hon. Officers, Pietermaritzburg, April.

21. Downs, C.T. 2013. Cape Parrot Conservation. KZN Bird Forum, WESSA, Howick, February.

22. Downs, C.T. 2012. Highlights from Tanzania. St Alpheges Church, Pietermaritzburg,

November.

23. Downs, C.T. 2012. The importance of curiosity in biology. Careers Day, Treverton College,

Mooi River, May.

24. Downs, C.T. 2012. Cape parrot conservation. Trogan Bird Club, Port Shepstone, April.

25. Downs, C.T. 2012. The Zululand Nile Crocodile project. St Charles School, Pietermaritzburg,

9 March.

26. Downs, C.T. 2012. Role and activities of the Cape Parrot Working Group. KZN Bird Forum,

WESSA Howick, 25 February.

27. Downs, C.T. 2011. My research interests. University of Florida, Gainesville, October.

28. Downs, C.T. 2011. Conservation of Cape Parrots. Maritzburg Christian School,

Pietermaritzburg, October.

29. Downs, C.T. 2011. Teaching to Large Classes of First Year Biology Students. University of

Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, September.

30. Downs, C.T. 2011. The importance of curiosity in biology. Inaugural lecture. University of

KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, August.

31. Downs, C.T. 2011. The Zululand Nile Crocodile project. University of KwaZulu-Natal,

National Science Week public lecture series, August.

32. Downs, C.T. 2011. Climate change: effects on forest, birds and bats. Durban Museum of

Natural Science, What’s up with the weather? Climate Change Seminar Series, July.

48

33. Downs, C.T. 2011. Conservation of Cape Parrots. Lions Bush Conservancy, Rawdons Hotel,

Nottingham Road, July.

34. Downs, C.T. 2011. Conservation of Cape Parrots. AGM Hilton Garden Club, Hilton June.

35. Downs, C.T. 2011. Conservation of Cape Parrots: 2011 International year of Forests.

Pietermaritzburg Girls High School, March.

36. Downs, C.T. 2011. Approaches/Strategies to Maximise Research Output. Women in

Leadership Leverage (WILL) Committee in the College of Health Sciences, UKZN,

March.

37. Downs, C.T. 2010. Zululand Nile Crocodile Overview. SBCS, UKZN Seminar, October.

38. Downs, C.T. 2010. Avian frugivores. Kranskloof Bird Club, April

39. Downs, C.T. 2010. Zululand Nile Crocodile Project. Kranskloof Gorge Hon. Officers,

February.

40. Downs, C.T. 2009. Effects of sugar type and concentration on food preference and digestion

in a range of South African frugivores. Seminar series: Adaptations of mammalian

herbivores to dietary niches- from morphophysiology to feeding ecology. SA-Swiss

Research co-operation: joint initiative of NRF and SNF.

41. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2008. Conservation of Cape Parrots. February, KZN Midlands

BirdLife, Howick.

42. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2008. Conservation of Cape Parrots. November, BirdLife

Magoeboeskloof, Tzaneen.

43. Bowker, M.B. & Downs C.T. 2008. Conservation of Cape Parrots. Presentation to press.

October, Opening of Marutswa Broadwalk, Bulwer. Organised by WWF and BirdLife.

44. Downs, C.T. 2008. Kenya and Tanzania: a glimpse. Seminar. October, Hilton Hotel, Hilton.

45. Downs, C.T. 2008. Cape Parrot Big Birding Days: 11 years on. Botanical Society Plant Fair,

Durban. 6th September

46. Downs, C.T. 2008. Kenya and Tanzania: a glimpse. August, Seminar UKZN, School of

Biological & Conservation Sciences.

47. Downs, C.T. 2008. Kenya and Tanzania: an audiovisual glimpse. August, St Alpheges

Anglican Church, Pietermaritzburg.

48. Downs, CT. 2007. Cape Parrot Big Birding Days: 10 years on. Cape parrot Working Group

AGM June 2007.

49. Downs, CT. 2007. Nectarivores-life in the fast lane. KZN Plant grower AGM, April 2007.

Organiser of the annual Cape Parrot Big Birding Day

This day is organised by myself and students to monitor Cape Parrots from KZN to the

Eastern Cape and involves birders, conservation bodies, conservancies, land-owners and other

interested people. I am involved in the co-ordination and synthesis of results of data collected

during this day-long monitoring of Cape Parrots by groups of birders. This is the 21st year of

the event. It is now run under the auspices of the Cape Parrot Working Group of which I am

an executive member (currently chair) and responsible for the portfolio of research.

OTHER UNIVERSITY ACTIVITIES

Teaching

I am a member of the School of Life Sciences, UKZN, Pietermaritzburg campus. In addition

to my teaching, I was Class Officer for the Science Foundation Programme (SFP) Biology

from 1994-2001, and co-ordinator of the Bioscience first year classes (1994-2000). I was

module co-ordinator for Bioscience 102 (2003-2004), Biology 104 then Biology 108 (2005-

to 2008), Biology 101 (2007), and Biology 200 (2010). I co-ordinated and taught Biology 222

(2006, 2010- 2015), and Biology 390 (2007-2016). My main teaching in my earlier years

focussed on SFP Biology and first years, but since I have taught more 2nd year courses

(Vertebrate Biology, and Animal Physiology), 3rd year Biol 300 and 390 courses, and

49

Honours (vertebrate Biology). I co-ordinate and teach a vertebrate Honours module and

supervise Honours projects. I have been responsible for organising the student demonstrators

for practicals in the school as well as their remuneration. I was part of the School Publicity

team. I assist in organising Open Day exhibitions, and student attendance at conferences, and

submitting reports about Zoology UKZN to the Zoological Society of Southern Africa.

Internship and Mentor programmes UKZN Pietermaritzburg

I have supervised and involved Black internship and other undergraduate students from 1995-

to the present in my research. There are usually 2-6 students per year. They spend their spare

time during the term and vacations assisting me with my research. I managed to get funding

from DEA for an apprenticeship programme for undergraduate Biology students. This has

resulted in students (10-12) working at various institutions during vacations under my

management. Many of these students have continued with postgraduate studies. Most of these

students valued not only the work experience but also the economic benefits.

Acknowledgements

I am indebted to my husband James Wood, our two daughters Tori and Emmi, my students,

colleagues at UKZN as well as colleagues in other tertiary institutions and non-government

organisations, and funders for their support and encouragement over the years.

curriculum vitae colleen t. downs (bsc hons, med, phd, pr ...lifesciences.ukzn.ac.za/files/postgard...

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