Community Efforts Save Thousands of Endangered Tortoises in Madagascar Flood
A community in Madagascar successfully rescued thousands of endangered tortoises from a flooded sanctuary caused by a cyclone. Despite recovering many tortoises, the sanctuary faced significant infrastructure damage. The critically endangered radiated tortoises represent broader conservation challenges due to habitat loss and poaching.
A collective effort in southern Madagascar has aided thousands of critically endangered tortoises after their sanctuary was flooded due to a tropical cyclone. Local community members, sanctuary staff, and police collaborated in a rescue operation to retrieve the tortoises, utilizing large containers and makeshift rafts to navigate the waters.
Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the Madagascar director for the Turtle Survival Alliance, expressed hopes of rescuing over 10,000 tortoises, though they anticipate challenges in tallying them due to their quick movements. Unfortunately, approximately 700 tortoises have been found dead, trapped by debris in the flood.
The majority of the rescued tortoises have been returned to the sanctuary; however, the center has suffered significant infrastructure damage due to the flooding, as stated by the Turtle Survival Alliance. Lavavolo Tortoise Center, which previously housed confiscated radiated tortoises, is now facing new challenges due to the storm’s impact.
Radiated tortoises, native to Madagascar and nearby islands, can grow to approximately 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) and have a lifespan exceeding 100 years. Historically, they were gift items, with one reportedly gifted to the Tongan royal family in 1777 and living until 1966.
These tortoises face critical endangerment from habitat loss and poaching, with significant illegal trafficking due to their distinctive shell markings. The Turtle Survival Alliance notes that radiated tortoise populations have plummeted, having lost 65% of their natural habitat, reducing their number from tens of millions previously.
The rescue of over 10,000 tortoises in Madagascar highlights the community’s commitment to conservation amidst a natural disaster. However, the infrastructure loss at the Lavavolo Tortoise Center poses ongoing challenges in protecting these critically endangered species. The plight of the radiated tortoise serves as a stark reminder of the effects of habitat destruction and illegal trafficking, necessitating continued efforts to ensure their survival.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
