Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi caused severe flooding at the Lavavola Tortoise Center in Madagascar, resulting in the deaths of 450 tortoises. Many surviving tortoises have been moved to higher ground, although they face pneumonia risks. The cyclone’s impact was exacerbated by prior drought conditions, complicating recovery efforts.
Severe flooding at the Lavavola Tortoise Center in southwestern Madagascar has resulted in the death of hundreds of tortoises due to Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi. The cyclone struck on January 16, bringing heavy rains that raised water levels up to 1.4 meters across approximately 10 hectares. So far, 450 radiated tortoises and spider tortoises have been reported dead as many were unable to escape from the torrent.
The center, managed by Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar, has relocated nearly all surviving tortoises to higher ground. However, prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions poses a risk of pneumonia for these animals. Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the local director, stated that the flooding was unprecedented for the area, which previously dealt with drought conditions that made the soil less absorbent.
The Lavavola Tortoise Center hosts over 12,000 critically endangered tortoises, specifically the radiated and spider tortoise species. The area has faced extreme weather circumstances, alternating between drought and sudden rainfall, severely impacting the local ecosystem and the animals therein. Cyclone Dikeledi caused significant destruction not only to the tortoise population but also affected local infrastructure and staff homes.
In summary, the Lavavola Tortoise Center has faced catastrophic flooding due to Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, claiming the lives of many tortoises while endangering the survivors. Recovery efforts are ongoing, supported by local volunteers, as the community strives to restore conditions for the tortoises. The incident underscores the vulnerabilities of wildlife facing rapid climate shifts and human impacts.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
