A community in Madagascar initiated a rescue operation for thousands of endangered tortoises swept away by flooding caused by a tropical cyclone. Although more than 10,000 tortoises were saved, around 700 were found dead. The Lavavolo Tortoise Center suffered significant damage, raising concerns over the future of these critically endangered species.
In southern Madagascar, a community mobilized to rescue thousands of critically endangered tortoises after floods, triggered by a tropical cyclone, swept away from their sanctuary. Sanctuary staff, community members, and police participated in the rescue effort, using large containers to gather the confused tortoises. Some improvised rafts from damaged buildings helped transport the tortoises, enabling rescuers to locate additional ones.
Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the Madagascar director for the Turtle Survival Alliance, expressed optimism that they salvaged over 10,000 tortoises, though an official count is pending. Counting poses challenges, as tortoises can exhibit surprising speed and are often uncooperative during the recovery process. Tragically, around 700 dead tortoises were recovered, victims of being trapped by rocks and debris amidst the flooding.
Razafimamonjiraibe noted, “Fortunately, most of the tortoises were able to float. Tortoises are actually very good swimmers,” highlighting their resilience. While many tortoises have returned to the sanctuary, the floods severely damaged the facility, which had been renovated in 2018 to accommodate a large influx of confiscated tortoises.
The Lavavolo Tortoise Center primarily houses radiated tortoises, a species native to Madagascar and nearby islands. Typically reaching approximately 30 centimeters in length, they are long-lived, often exceeding 100 years. The historical significance of these tortoises includes Captain James Cook presenting one to the Tongan royal family, which lived until 1966 at the remarkable age of 188.
Both radiated and spider tortoises face critical endangerment due to habitat loss and poaching, driven by illegal trafficking and demand as exotic pets. Once numbering in the tens of millions, their population has significantly declined, with a 65% loss of natural habitat, as reported by the Turtle Survival Alliance.
The recent floods in Madagascar have posed a severe threat to the sanctuary housing critically endangered tortoises. Community efforts resulted in the rescue of over 10,000 tortoises, although many perished in the disaster. The Lavavolo Tortoise Center, crucial for the rehabilitation of these species, has suffered extensive damage, exacerbating the challenges faced by the already endangered tortoises. Continued conservation efforts remain essential to protect these unique species from the ongoing threats of habitat destruction and illegal trafficking.
Original Source: www.dailybulletin.com
