First record of the bushy-tailed jird, Sekeetamys calurus (Thomas, 1892) (Rodentia: Muridae) in Oman

Abstract

In order to improve the knowledge of terrestrial fauna in the Jabal Samhan Reserve-in southern Oman-several systematic surveys have been carried out in this region. Four specimens of the bushy-tailed jird, the gerbilline Sekeetamys calurus (Thos.) were collected from three localities. This is the first record for the species in Oman and also the first evidence that this jird is in a protected area along its known distribution range. This new record also enlarges the elevational limit known for the species, from 600 m to 1484 m. The animals obtained indicate that S. calurus has reproductive activity in July.