Doratogonus Rattrayi

11/27/2011

A new species of millipede has been discovered by Michelle Hamer in the Nkandla Forest in Zululand, South Africa, south of Fugitives' Drift Lodge. Michelle has chosen to name the millipede Doratogonus Rattrayi in honor of the late David Rattray, world-renowned Ango-Zulu War historian, and promoter of the oral history tradition of the Zulu people who, through his story-telling, inspired people of all ages and from all walks of life.

This honor is particularly fitting as David had a deep interest in entomology - he held an Honors degree in Entomology from the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg. He would also have been particularly pleased that this new entomological discovery was in Nkandla - David spent much time over the years exploring Nkandla and the Mome Gorge where the Zulu King Cetshwayo is buried.