Endemic to southern Madagascar, the Radiated Tortoise (Astrochelys radiata, IUCN Critically Endangered, CITES I), is known for its dark shell with golden stripes radiating from the center of its scutes. Once one of the most abundant tortoises on Earth, this species has recently undergone a drastic population decline. At the current rate, experts estimate that the Radiated Tortoise could face extinction in the wild within 20 years, given recent poaching trends. Adult tortoises are targeted for the regional bushmeat trade, while younger individuals are widely trapped and smuggled out of the country for the illicit pet trade, with China and Southeast Asia serving as primary destinations. The simultaneous targeting of both age groups severely hinders the ability of tortoise populations to recover. In tandem, the habitat throughout the south, the spiny forest, is one of the most rapidly disappearing ecoregions in Madagascar, with over 80% having already been lost due to deforestation and charcoal production. Turtle Survival Alliance Canada (TSAC) works closely with the experienced conservation organization Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) in their efforts to save this emblematic species.
TSA’s Madagascar program, launched in 2010, seeks to protect and restore populations of all four endemic tortoises, with a primary focus on the imperiled Radiated Tortoise. Since 2022, they have successfully reintroduced 9,000 tortoises to three community-protected forests. The preliminary results of their reintroduction are promising. Data suggests that site fidelity has been instilled, and the community-protected forests remain secure. Creating community relations that lead to adequately protected areas is a time-consuming, labor-intensive process, but the need to expand this program is evident. Outside of its rescue, rehabilitation, and reintroduction program, TSA supports communities by building schools, providing alternative livelihood training, hiring community members to grow tortoise food and serve as forest wardens, and building water infrastructure. TSA has also established an effective anti-poaching network and enforcement team comprising three District Tortoise Coordinators and over 300 village volunteers and has assembled a highly motivated veterinary team to ensure that tortoises are ready for their return to the wild.
TSAC is proud to help carry out the critical conservation work for the turtles of Madagascar. Supporting this work is at the heart of our mission to protect the environment for the benefit of the public by conserving and restoring ecosystems and saving, supporting, protecting and assisting turtles and their habitats, both in the wild and in captivity. Join us and make an impact on turtles around the world.