Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi caused devastating flooding at the Lavavola Tortoise Center in southern Madagascar, resulting in the deaths of 450 tortoises and affecting over 12,000 critically endangered animals. The sanctuary staff and volunteers are working to care for survivors while also addressing the damage caused by the flooding.
Severe flooding has devastated a tortoise sanctuary in southern Madagascar, resulting in the death of hundreds of tortoises. On January 16, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck the Atsimo-Andrefana region, triggering torrential rains that caused water levels to reach approximately 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) across an area of about 10 hectares (25 acres). The Lavavola Tortoise Center, home to over 12,000 critically endangered tortoises, faced overwhelming water damage.
As a consequence of the flooding, 450 radiated tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) and spider tortoises (Pyxis arachnoides) have been reported dead. Although many tortoises were able to float and were rescued, others became trapped or were washed away by the sudden surge of floodwaters. Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the country director for Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar, emphasized the unusual severity of this flooding, stating, “It was less than 20 hours of rain, and the whole area was flooded.
The Lavavola Tortoise Center plays a vital role in the conservation of tortoises, especially the radiated tortoise, whose population has plummeted by 75% in recent years due to poaching and illegal trafficking. The region had previously faced drought conditions with extremely high temperatures exacerbating the situation, making the ground incapable of absorbing the subsequent heavy rainfall. These factors combined have significantly affected the delicate ecosystem and the well-being of the tortoises housed at the sanctuary.
In conclusion, the flooding at the Lavavola Tortoise Center has led to the tragic loss of hundreds of tortoises, highlighting the urgent need for better preparedness against such natural disasters in fragile environments. While staff and volunteers work tirelessly to care for the surviving tortoises, the incident underscores the ongoing threats faced by critically endangered tortoise species due to environmental changes and human activities. Efforts for recovery and conservation remain imperative to protect these vulnerable animals in Madagascar.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
