Thousands of Tortoises Saved at Madagascar’s Lavavolo Tortoise Center

Heavy rains from Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi 10 days ago caused massive and severe flooding in Madagascar’s Atsimo-Andrewfana Region, which caused the Lavavolo Tortoise Center to be submerged underwater.

The storm caused massive damage to the facility’s infrastructure, and endangered thousands of critically endangered Radiated Tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) and Spider Tortoises (Pyxis arachnoides), according to the Turtle Survival Alliance.

Thanks to efforts by locals, 26 staff and multiple volunteer veterinarians, more than 10,000 tortoises were saved from the floodwaters. Unfortunately, an estimated 700 tortoises did not survive the floodwaters.

“The Lavavolo Tortoise Center is a cornerstone of our conservation efforts in Madagascar, playing a critical role in safeguarding the future of the Radiated Tortoise,” Marc Dupuis-Desormeaux, President & CEO of the Turtle Survival Alliance said in a statement released to the media. “While the devastation caused by this flooding is immense, the resilience and commitment of our staff and the local community have been nothing short of extraordinary. Together, they are working tirelessly to rescue the tortoises and protect this vital facility.”