Floods at a tortoise sanctuary in Madagascar, exacerbated by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, have led to the deaths of hundreds of tortoises. Despite rescue efforts, ongoing risks such as pneumonia remain for survivors. The center faces logistical challenges due to infrastructure damage, but community support continues to provide relief post-disaster.
Severe flooding at the Lavavola Tortoise Center in southwestern Madagascar has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of tortoises. Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck on January 16, causing water levels to soar up to 1.4 meters across the center’s 10 hectares. 450 radiated and spider tortoises were found dead, while many others were rescued from the deluge.
Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the country director for Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar, remarked on the unprecedented nature of the flooding, stating, “It was less than 20 hours of rain, and the whole area was flooded.” The preceding drought conditions compounded the flood’s severity, leaving the soil unable to absorb such heavy rainfall. Staff have relocated nearly all surviving tortoises to higher enclosures to shield them from wet, cold conditions that can lead to pneumonia.
Although floodwaters are receding, the main access road to the Lavavola Center remains submerged, complicating transport logistics. The homes of 15 staff members have been severely damaged, though fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Community volunteers continue to provide essential support, bringing substantial food supplies for the tortoises amid the crisis.
The radiated tortoise, once populous with over 12 million individuals, has seen a drastic decline due to poaching and illegal trafficking, according to Jordan Gray from Turtle Survival Alliance. Cyclone Dikeledi previously devastated northern Mozambique, leading to fatalities and widespread displacement as reported by the U.N. International Organization for Migration.
The Lavavola Tortoise Center serves as a sanctuary for critically endangered tortoises in Madagascar. Pertinent to the situation is the alarming decline in tortoise populations due to human activities. Cyclone Dikeledi, a significant weather event, exemplifies the impact of severe weather on already vulnerable ecosystems. This context highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts.
In summary, the Lavavola Tortoise Center in Madagascar has suffered devastating losses due to Cyclone Dikeledi, resulting in considerable tortoise fatalities and ongoing logistical challenges. Despite the efforts of staff and community members, the catastrophic effects of extreme weather on conservation sites signal a critical need for enhanced protective measures against climate-related disasters. Continued support and intervention will be essential to safeguard remaining tortoise populations.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
