Meet Ralisata Mahefafatiana (Mahefa), our Conservation Manager. Here she reflects on her work and the importance of Lemurs to Madagascar.

Lemurs are extraordinary creatures, found only in Madagascar. They are one of the few primates in the region, aside from humans. Unlike many other animals, lemurs use their hands in a manner similar to humans. They give birth to one baby or sometimes twins, and the mothers breastfeed and carry their young on their backs or fronts. Remarkably, female lemurs are dominant in their society. They even exhibit a fascinating behavior where, if food resources are scarce due to deforestation, they will avoid mating to prevent pregnancy. Lemurs play a crucial ecological role by helping with tree planting through their droppings, which contain seeds.

Madagascar is home to 113 species of lemurs, and in the specific area where we work, there are 11 different species. This biodiversity highlights the richness of the region and underscores the importance of our conservation efforts.

Our work with local communities is fundamental to our mission. We conduct awareness-raising activities to educate people about the similarities between lemurs and humans, discouraging them from hunting these animals for food. We also teach communities about the laws protecting living beings and train young people and forest residents on how to safeguard and monitor lemur populations.

These efforts are critical for the conservation of the rainforest. Lemurs are not just iconic animals of Madagascar; they are essential for the growth of trees and serve as a flagship species for the island's biodiversity.

However, more can still be done to conserve both lemurs and their rainforest habitat. Continued forest restoration is essential to counteract habitat destruction. Strict enforcement of forest and wildlife laws is necessary to prevent illegal trafficking. Furthermore, ongoing collaboration with local communities, empowering them with responsibility and knowledge, is crucial for the long-term success of conservation efforts.