Habitats

The steep valleys that drain its moist slopes are home to some of the largest and most important patches of Afromontane forest in the entire country. This habitat is currently entirely unprotected, despite previous calls for the recognition of the site as a special reserve (Huntley 1974). Currently, unsustainable use of forest products and human-caused bush fires are the greatest threats to the biodiversity of Mount Moco. Estimates from 2004 put the remaining forest cover at 85 ha.

Most of the mountain massif and areas to the west are covered in edaphic Protea-rich grasslands. To the north, east and south of the mountain, large tracts of miombo woodland remain, although these are rapidly being felled to make way for crop fields.

Landscapes

The mountainous terrain allows for breathtaking views across the surrounding plains and mountain chains, from the top of Mount Moco.

Biodiversity

Mount Moco has a rich and varied avifauna, with many special species of bird occurring in the area. Few mammals remain in the area, and proper surveys of reptiles, amphibians, plants and other taxonomic groups have not yet been conducted.