The mammalian collections from the northern Sperrgebiet are dominated by micromammals, with abundant medium sized specimens, and exceptionally few large mammals. Taphonomic conditions appear to have favoured the burial and preservation of small specimens, and tended to filter out large material, the few specimens found being in poor condition due to lengthy subaerial exposure prior to burial. Aspects of the taphonomy of the region are discussed, including the important role of carnivores in concentrating small mammal remains. Depositional, geochemical and meteorological aspects are also examined for their effects on the fossils.