Flooding from Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi devastated the Lavavola Tortoise Center in Madagascar, claiming the lives of 450 tortoises. Many others were saved and relocated to higher grounds to reduce health risks. The sanctuary faces ongoing challenges due to restricted access and damage to staff homes. This disaster underscores the severe impacts of climate change on wildlife and conservation efforts.
Severe flooding has struck the Lavavola Tortoise Center in southwestern Madagascar, leading to the tragic deaths of hundreds of tortoises. Following Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi on January 16, water levels rose up to 1.4 meters across a 10-hectare area, overwhelming the sanctuary that protects over 12,000 critically endangered tortoises. Although many tortoises could float to safety, 450 radiated and spider tortoises perished, having been trapped or swept away by debris.
The cyclone’s swift currents caused unprecedented flooding, according to Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar’s country director. The region has experienced severe drought conditions prior, which deteriorated the soil’s ability to absorb the intense rainfall. Consequently, the surviving tortoises have been relocated to higher enclosures by dedicated staff and volunteers to mitigate further risks such as pneumonia.
As floodwaters begin to recede, access to the Lavavola center remains restricted due to inundated roads, complicating transport logistics. Additionally, the homes of fifteen staff members experienced significant damage, though fortunately, no injuries were reported. Local volunteers continue to assist with feeding the animals, ensuring their needs are met during this difficult time.
The radiated tortoise, once abundant with a population exceeding 12 million, has faced a drastic decline due to poaching and trafficking. Jordan Gray, an external relations manager at Turtle Survival Alliance, reported a three-quarter reduction in the species. This catastrophic event highlights the ongoing threats to their survival and the need for continued conservation efforts.
Previously, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi wreaked havoc on the Nampula region in Mozambique, resulting in loss of life and affecting nearly 249,000 individuals. The adverse effects of climate change and extreme weather events pose significant challenges to both wildlife and communities in the affected areas.
The Lavavola Tortoise Center plays a critical role in the conservation of several tortoise species, notably the radiated tortoise and the spider tortoise, both of which are classified as critically endangered. Environmental threats, including climate extremes and human activities like poaching, severely threaten these species’ populations. Understanding the context of these dangers emphasizes the importance of robust conservation initiatives to safeguard these tortoises from extinction.
The recent flooding at the Lavavola Tortoise Center, catalyzed by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, has exemplified the vulnerabilities of both wildlife conservation efforts and local communities amidst climate challenges. Despite tragic losses, the ongoing commitment from volunteers and staff showcases determination in protecting the surviving tortoises. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the larger implications of environmental changes on endangered species and the urgent need for conservation strategies.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
