Endangered Tortoises Rescued in Madagascar After Flooding

Following Cyclone Dikeledi, a community in southern Madagascar successfully rescued thousands of critically endangered tortoises that were displaced by severe flooding at the Lavavolo Tortoise Center. Over 10,000 tortoises were saved, although around 700 were lost. The incident highlights the ongoing threats to tortoise populations due to habitat loss and illegal trafficking.

In southern Madagascar, a community mobilized to rescue thousands of critically endangered tortoises after Cyclone Dikeledi caused severe flooding, sweeping them away from the Lavavolo Tortoise Center. Approximately 12,000 radiated and spider tortoises that had been confiscated from illegal traffickers faced this new threat when floodwaters rose over three feet, submerging their sanctuary and leaving many helpless in the tumultuous waters.

The rescue operation involved sanctuary staff, local residents, and police personnel, who used large containers to gather the confused tortoises from rising waters. Some made makeshift rafts from damaged structures to transport the reptiles safely. Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, director for the Turtle Survival Alliance, expressed hope that over 10,000 tortoises had been saved, although an official count was still pending.

Sadly, around 700 tortoises were confirmed dead, trapped by debris during the flooding. Fortunately, tortoises possess floating abilities and are adept swimmers, allowing many to survive the ordeal. Despite most tortoises being returned, the floods severely damaged the sanctuary’s infrastructure.

Renovated in 2018 to accommodate confiscated tortoises, the Lavavolo Tortoise Center was previously equipped to care for a large population of radiated tortoises, which are native to Madagascar and nearby regions. These tortoises have a typical length of about 30 centimeters and can live for over a century, with one historically noted tortoise reaching 188 years.

Both radiated and spider tortoises face critical endangerment due to habitat loss and poaching, as they are often sought after both for their meat and as exotic pets due to their striking shell patterns. Once numbering in the tens of millions, radiated tortoises have seen a dramatic decline, disappearing from 65% of their original habitat in Madagascar, according to the Turtle Survival Alliance.

The article discusses the efforts made to rescue tortoises in Madagascar following unexpected flooding from Cyclone Dikeledi. It highlights the community’s response to the crisis facing the endangered tortoise species, which are under threat from both environmental changes and human activities such as poaching and trafficking. The focus is on the Lavavolo Tortoise Center, a sanctuary previously established to protect tortoises rescued from illegal wildlife trade. Understanding the species’ history and their endangerment status is crucial in appreciating the rescue operation’s significance.

The rescue of thousands of critically endangered tortoises in Madagascar showcases the community’s resilience in the face of natural disasters. While many tortoises survived, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats to these species from habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trafficking. The Lavavolo Tortoise Center faces challenges in rebuilding, highlighting the need for sustained conservation efforts.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com