Protecting Landscapes in Madagascar
Interpretations of the Mandrare Valley An Exploration of a co... more Protecting Landscapes in Madagascar Interpretations of the Mandrare Valley An Exploration of a concept to bridge the gaps between science and the humanities in an effort to integrate different forms of knowledge for the management of the new generation of protected areas in Madagascar
‘Landscape Character’ is about People & Place Protected areas in Madagascar were until recently based on the idea of places where natural wildernesses should be protected from people. This concept works for the core of a protected area network. However when one goes beyond such core wilderness areas, which can be strictly protected, it is obvious that people live within and mould the landscape. Approaches to landscape conservation need to take account of the diversity of objectives held by the stakeholders of a given landscape. The new generation of protected areas which are under development across the island, give the opportunity to recognise that Man is an integral part of Madagascar’s landscapes, and that he should remain so. An understanding of landscape being used in this context should accept that they are dynamic and that cultural and social factors are of equal importance to natural elements. Indeed it is the combination of the natural and social dimensions of an area which give it its character and which can be part of the basis for regional development. Landscape Character Assessment is a process which could help stakeholders from different backgrounds to understand the complexity of their landscape and to develop a common understanding on which to base the planning within this category of new protected areas. Landscape character is a distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one place different from another.
Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriat... more Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriatahinjanahary RSG, Ferguson B & Ratsirarson J (2014) Abundance of five nocturnal species and the influence of habitat characteristics in the littoral forest of Tampolo, northeast Madagascar, Lemur News Volume 18:52-57 Tampolo forest, in the north east of Madagascar, is a protected area of littoral forest, managed by ESSA- Forêts of the University of Antananarivo. Five species of nocturnal lemur are thought to be present in the forest; the aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis), brown mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus), greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major), weasel sportive lemur (Lepilemur mustelinus) and eastern woolly lemur (Avahi laniger). However, currently there is a paucity of data on the density and distribution of these species. We used 20 line transects (0.5km in length) and distance sampling techniques to establish population sizes of lemur species and analysed our results using the software DISTANCE 6.0. The characteristics of lemur-used trees were catalogued during day surveys and compared to those of randomly selected trees to determine which characteristics were ecologically important to lemur species. Results indicate that the estimated population size of A. laniger is 150 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 84-267) and of M. rufus is 323 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 199-523). Only 3 individuals of C. major were observed and no individuals of D. madagascariensis or L. mustelinus were detected during line transects. This suggests low population sizes or potential difficulty in detecting these species, especially D. madagascariensis, which is at low natural densities throughout Madagascar and, given human persecution, has a high tendency for flight in the presence of humans. The average diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of trees used by A. laniger and the average height of trees used by M. rufus were significantly different to randomly selected trees. This suggests that particular trees may be of higher ecological importance to these lemur species than others, which enhances problems caused by deforestation. Our results suggest that the phenology of the trees used by both of these species was not a significant factor, though exploration into previous research suggest that our data may have been biased by seasonality. Further research on feeding ecology would be necessary to determine whether this is an important factor concerning lemur abundance in Tampolo Forest. Repetitions of our study over years to come will also serve to monitor long-term population trends in the region.
The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in ... more The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of organizers and funders of the conference. Check regular updates via ERPI website: www.iss.nl/erpi
Madagascar Conservation & Development is the journal of Madagascar Wildlife Conservation (MWC) an... more Madagascar Conservation & Development is the journal of Madagascar Wildlife Conservation (MWC) and the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI Switzerland). It is produced in these institutions’ own responsibility.All the Issues and articles are freely available athttp://www.mwc-info.net/en/services/journal.htmContact Journal [email protected] for general inquiries [email protected] for supporting the journalJournal Madagascar Conservation & DevelopmentInstitute and Museum of Anthropology University of Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190 CH-8057 Zurich, [email protected] for general inquiries Postfach 2701CH-8021 Zurich, SwitzerlandLogement 11, Cite AndohaniatoAntananarivo 101, [email protected] for general inquiries JGI Jane Goodall Institute SchweizPostfach 28078033 ZurichSwitzerland
The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in ... more The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of organizers and funders of the conference. Check regular updates via ERPI website: www.iss.nl/erpi
Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFl... more Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFleur et al. (2017) and attempted to estimate the size of the extant population of ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) based on rapid field assessments and published counts from 32 and 34 sites, respectively, and estimated there to be fewer than 2500 ring-tailed lemurs remaining in the wild (Gould and Sauther 2016: 2000-2400 individuals; LaFleur et al. 2017: 2200 individuals). However, both studies have likely severely underestimated the size of the extant ring-tailed lemur population because of a range of methodological problems. Specifically, 1) the population status of several sites was misinterpreted from the literature, 2) population estimates for several important sites are incomplete or lacking, and 3) total population estimates are based on an incomplete sample of known populations. Both studies depend primarily on published records; however, the data on presence and/or abundance of ring-tailed lemurs extracted from prior studies were misinterpreted or
Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts.... more Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts. This paper presents a code of ethical conduct for researchers who plan to publish their studies with the journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. This paper will be subject to continuous adaptations and discussions. Les conduites éthiques gagnent en importance en ces temps marqués par une mondialisation croissante et une augmentation du volume des travaux de recherche. Cette contribution présente un code de conduite éthique destiné aux chercheurs qui envisagent de publier leurs études dans le journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. Cet article fera l'objet de discussions et sera régulièrement adapté.
As the Copenhagen negotiations on the form of post Kyoto mechanisms to tackle climate change appr... more As the Copenhagen negotiations on the form of post Kyoto mechanisms to tackle climate change approach, firmly on the agenda are proposals to include Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD). REDD could potentially generate tens of millions of dollars annually for Madagascar, bringing a huge potential to deliver forest conservation and improved livelihoods for the rural Malagasy. Efforts
Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is stil... more Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is still largely understudied despite intense anthropogenic threats including forest loss and edge effects. Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve is a recently expanded rainforest protected area that is lacking detailed surveys and assessments of the native carnivore community of the endemic family Eupleridae. To identify which terrestrial carnivores occupy the reserve and what anthropogenic disturbances and factors best explain their occurrence patterns, we deployed 35 motion-activated cameras to detect native and introduced carnivores. From November 2018 to February 2019, we collected 2918 unique capture events (all species) and confirmed the presence of 5 euplerids: Galidia elegans, Galidictis fasciata, Eupleres goudotii, Fossa fossana, and Cryptoprocta ferox. These results extend the known range of E. goudotii and G. fasciata. In the reserve, F. fossana and G. elegans were the most common and wi...
ABSTRACT Since the 1980s Madagascar has experienced increasing international attention promoting ... more ABSTRACT Since the 1980s Madagascar has experienced increasing international attention promoting conservation and development, attracted by its biodiversity hotspot status. The island has consequently been a testing ground for new approaches to environmental governance including integrated conservation and development projects, community-based natural resource management, new generation co-managed, multiple-use protected areas and the commoditisation of forests and biodiversity through reduced emissions from deforestation and degradation and schemes implementing mining biodiversity offsets. In addition, the liberalisation of economic policies has led to internationally funded agricultural development projects, large-scale land acquisitions for food and biofuel production by foreign corporations and governments, and globally significant mining investments. Policy reforms developed alongside these interventions and were characterised by approaches purportedly designed to improve social and environmental outcomes for the Malagasy people through more participatory forms of governance, which promised greater equity and sustainability. The functional effectiveness, transparency and social justice impacts of new governance approaches and their related environmental and social regulations vary widely, however. This chapter applies a common focus on participation and social justice to case studies of four sectors: agriculture, mining, forests and protected areas. In doing so, we highlight a ‘participation gap’ between intentions and practice with serious implications for social justice, and reflect on what has, and has not, been learned over three decades of environmental governance reforms.
Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is stil... more Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is still largely understudied, despite intense anthropogenic threats, including forest loss and edge effects. Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve is a recently expanded rainforest protected area that is lacking detailed surveys and assessments of the native carnivore community of the endemic family Eupleridae. To identify which terrestrial carnivores occupy the reserve and what anthropogenic disturbances and factors best explain their occurrence patterns, we deployed 35 motion-activated cameras to detect native and introduced carnivores. From November 2018 to February 2019, we collected 2918 unique capture events (all species) and confirmed the presence of 5 euplerids: Galidia elegans, Galidictis fasciata, Eupleres goudotii, Fossa fossana and Cryptoprocta ferox. These results extend the known range of E. goudotii and G. fasciata. In the reserve, F. fossana and G. elegans are the most common and widespread native carnivores, while E. goudotii was the rarest. We highlight the negative impact of edge effects on G. fasciata and F. fossana and the threat posed by the free-ranging non-native carnivore, C. familiaris. This study represents the first detailed survey and occurrence estimates of the carnivore community of this protected area, allowing comparison with other protected areas in Madagascar. Our empirical findings show that anthropogenic disturbance negatively impacts carnivore existence within Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve and suggest important management recommendations for protecting the carnivore community and the co-occurring wildlife living within Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve.
Notes from the exchange and reflection workshop on the mica sector in the Anosy Region, Madagascar on Friday 20th September 2019, 2019
This report is a summary of the discussions held during the one day workshop reflecting on the Mi... more This report is a summary of the discussions held during the one day workshop reflecting on the Mica sector in the Anosy and Androy Regions held in Fort Dauphin on Friday 20th September 2019. Male and female representatives of a dozen mica mines across the region, chosen to maximise representativity met in the conference room of the Hotel Le Port, along with representatives of local civil society organisations, the private sector, UNICEF, international NGOs and researchers. Short presentations were made by the regional director of population, the regional representative of BCMM, the chairman and executive committee members of the Association “Miavotse Anosy Androy”. The remainder of the day was devoted to the participants splitting into eight sub groups, each discussing different themes of social issues facing the people mining mica. The report is intended to be simply a transfer of the specific discussions and reccomendations, without any analysis. Analysis and further discussion are envisaged to be an important next step in the process of supporting mica mining communities to work in better conditions.
Conservation in Madagascar has seen some notable advances over the last two decades; massive poli... more Conservation in Madagascar has seen some notable advances over the last two decades; massive policy reform and the launch of a large number of field - level initiatives have resulted in a range of new policy frameworks and institutions, a reduction in deforestation rates in many ...
Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFl... more Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFleur et al. (2017) and Gould and Sauther (2016) attempted to estimate the size of the extant population of ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) based on rapid field assessments and published counts from 32 and 34 sites, respectively, and estimated there to be fewer than 2500 ring-tailed lemurs remaining in the wild (Gould and Sauther 2016: 2000–2400 individuals; LaFleur et al. 2017: 2200 individuals). However, both studies have likely severely underestimated the size of the extant ring-tailed lemur population because of a range of methodological problems. Specifically, 1) the population status of several sites was misinterpreted from the literature, 2) population estimates for several important sites are incomplete or lacking, and 3) total population estimates are based on an incomplete sample of known populations.
Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts.... more Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts. This paper presents a code of ethical conduct for researchers who plan to publish their studies with the journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. This paper will be subject to continuous adaptations and discussions.
RÉSUMÉ Les conduites éthiques gagnent en importance en ces temps marqués par une mondialisation croissante et une augmentation du volume des travaux de recherche. Cette contribution présente un code de conduite éthique destiné aux chercheurs qui envi-sagent de publier leurs études dans le journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. Cet article fera l'objet de discussions et sera régulièrement adapté.
Wilson L & Ferguson HB (2014) Activity budgets, feeding and habitat preferences and home range si... more Wilson L & Ferguson HB (2014) Activity budgets, feeding and habitat preferences and home range size of Verreaux’s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) Lemur News, Volume 18:34-37
Malagasy lemurs are under great threat from destruction to their habitat, and it is essential to understand how this degradation impacts on them in order to conserve them The behaviour of two groups of a total of 9 Verreaux’s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) was observed from 2nd-29th July 2012 in Mahavelo, southern Madagascar. The study was conducted in two habitats, one subject to selective logging and grazing, the other being largely untouched by disturbance. The sifaka group in the disturbed habitat was found to have a home range size 3-fold that of the group in the less disturbed habitat. Activity budgets were not found to be statistically significant between groups, though ‘Site’ and ‘Time of Day’ combined was found to be a significant explanatory variable for variation in activity budgets. The lemurs at site B (less disturbed) were found to feed on a much larger range of plant species than those at site A (disturbed), and were also found to feed for slightly longer, though this difference was not significant and could potentially be explained by the pregnancy of one of the individuals at site B (less disturbed). These findings suggest that P. verreauxi tolerate habitat fragmentation by broadening their home range and focusing their feeding requirements on a smaller number of important plant species. Future studies should look at the behaviour of a larger number of Verreaux’s sifaka groups at Ifotaka on an annual timescale and quantify more accurately the impact of habitat destruction.
Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriat... more Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriatahinjanahary RSG, Ferguson B & Ratsirarson J (2014) Abundance of five nocturnal species and the influence of habitat characteristics in the littoral forest of Tampolo, northeast Madagascar, Lemur News Volume 18:52-57
Tampolo forest, in the north east of Madagascar, is a protected area of littoral forest, managed by ESSA- Forêts of the University of Antananarivo. Five species of nocturnal lemur are thought to be present in the forest; the aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis), brown mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus), greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major), weasel sportive lemur (Lepilemur mustelinus) and eastern woolly lemur (Avahi laniger). However, currently there is a paucity of data on the density and distribution of these species. We used 20 line transects (0.5km in length) and distance sampling techniques to establish population sizes of lemur species and analysed our results using the software DISTANCE 6.0. The characteristics of lemur-used trees were catalogued during day surveys and compared to those of randomly selected trees to determine which characteristics were ecologically important to lemur species. Results indicate that the estimated population size of A. laniger is 150 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 84-267) and of M. rufus is 323 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 199-523). Only 3 individuals of C. major were observed and no individuals of D. madagascariensis or L. mustelinus were detected during line transects. This suggests low population sizes or potential difficulty in detecting these species, especially D. madagascariensis, which is at low natural densities throughout Madagascar and, given human persecution, has a high tendency for flight in the presence of humans. The average diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of trees used by A. laniger and the average height of trees used by M. rufus were significantly different to randomly selected trees. This suggests that particular trees may be of higher ecological importance to these lemur species than others, which enhances problems caused by deforestation. Our results suggest that the phenology of the trees used by both of these species was not a significant factor, though exploration into previous research suggest that our data may have been biased by seasonality. Further research on feeding ecology would be necessary to determine whether this is an important factor concerning lemur abundance in Tampolo Forest. Repetitions of our study over years to come will also serve to monitor long-term population trends in the region.
Protecting Landscapes in Madagascar
Interpretations of the Mandrare Valley An Exploration of a co... more Protecting Landscapes in Madagascar Interpretations of the Mandrare Valley An Exploration of a concept to bridge the gaps between science and the humanities in an effort to integrate different forms of knowledge for the management of the new generation of protected areas in Madagascar
‘Landscape Character’ is about People & Place Protected areas in Madagascar were until recently based on the idea of places where natural wildernesses should be protected from people. This concept works for the core of a protected area network. However when one goes beyond such core wilderness areas, which can be strictly protected, it is obvious that people live within and mould the landscape. Approaches to landscape conservation need to take account of the diversity of objectives held by the stakeholders of a given landscape. The new generation of protected areas which are under development across the island, give the opportunity to recognise that Man is an integral part of Madagascar’s landscapes, and that he should remain so. An understanding of landscape being used in this context should accept that they are dynamic and that cultural and social factors are of equal importance to natural elements. Indeed it is the combination of the natural and social dimensions of an area which give it its character and which can be part of the basis for regional development. Landscape Character Assessment is a process which could help stakeholders from different backgrounds to understand the complexity of their landscape and to develop a common understanding on which to base the planning within this category of new protected areas. Landscape character is a distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one place different from another.
Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriat... more Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriatahinjanahary RSG, Ferguson B & Ratsirarson J (2014) Abundance of five nocturnal species and the influence of habitat characteristics in the littoral forest of Tampolo, northeast Madagascar, Lemur News Volume 18:52-57 Tampolo forest, in the north east of Madagascar, is a protected area of littoral forest, managed by ESSA- Forêts of the University of Antananarivo. Five species of nocturnal lemur are thought to be present in the forest; the aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis), brown mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus), greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major), weasel sportive lemur (Lepilemur mustelinus) and eastern woolly lemur (Avahi laniger). However, currently there is a paucity of data on the density and distribution of these species. We used 20 line transects (0.5km in length) and distance sampling techniques to establish population sizes of lemur species and analysed our results using the software DISTANCE 6.0. The characteristics of lemur-used trees were catalogued during day surveys and compared to those of randomly selected trees to determine which characteristics were ecologically important to lemur species. Results indicate that the estimated population size of A. laniger is 150 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 84-267) and of M. rufus is 323 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 199-523). Only 3 individuals of C. major were observed and no individuals of D. madagascariensis or L. mustelinus were detected during line transects. This suggests low population sizes or potential difficulty in detecting these species, especially D. madagascariensis, which is at low natural densities throughout Madagascar and, given human persecution, has a high tendency for flight in the presence of humans. The average diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of trees used by A. laniger and the average height of trees used by M. rufus were significantly different to randomly selected trees. This suggests that particular trees may be of higher ecological importance to these lemur species than others, which enhances problems caused by deforestation. Our results suggest that the phenology of the trees used by both of these species was not a significant factor, though exploration into previous research suggest that our data may have been biased by seasonality. Further research on feeding ecology would be necessary to determine whether this is an important factor concerning lemur abundance in Tampolo Forest. Repetitions of our study over years to come will also serve to monitor long-term population trends in the region.
The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in ... more The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of organizers and funders of the conference. Check regular updates via ERPI website: www.iss.nl/erpi
Madagascar Conservation & Development is the journal of Madagascar Wildlife Conservation (MWC) an... more Madagascar Conservation & Development is the journal of Madagascar Wildlife Conservation (MWC) and the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI Switzerland). It is produced in these institutions’ own responsibility.All the Issues and articles are freely available athttp://www.mwc-info.net/en/services/journal.htmContact Journal [email protected] for general inquiries [email protected] for supporting the journalJournal Madagascar Conservation & DevelopmentInstitute and Museum of Anthropology University of Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190 CH-8057 Zurich, [email protected] for general inquiries Postfach 2701CH-8021 Zurich, SwitzerlandLogement 11, Cite AndohaniatoAntananarivo 101, [email protected] for general inquiries JGI Jane Goodall Institute SchweizPostfach 28078033 ZurichSwitzerland
The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in ... more The views expressed here are solely those of the authors in their private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of organizers and funders of the conference. Check regular updates via ERPI website: www.iss.nl/erpi
Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFl... more Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFleur et al. (2017) and attempted to estimate the size of the extant population of ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) based on rapid field assessments and published counts from 32 and 34 sites, respectively, and estimated there to be fewer than 2500 ring-tailed lemurs remaining in the wild (Gould and Sauther 2016: 2000-2400 individuals; LaFleur et al. 2017: 2200 individuals). However, both studies have likely severely underestimated the size of the extant ring-tailed lemur population because of a range of methodological problems. Specifically, 1) the population status of several sites was misinterpreted from the literature, 2) population estimates for several important sites are incomplete or lacking, and 3) total population estimates are based on an incomplete sample of known populations. Both studies depend primarily on published records; however, the data on presence and/or abundance of ring-tailed lemurs extracted from prior studies were misinterpreted or
Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts.... more Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts. This paper presents a code of ethical conduct for researchers who plan to publish their studies with the journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. This paper will be subject to continuous adaptations and discussions. Les conduites éthiques gagnent en importance en ces temps marqués par une mondialisation croissante et une augmentation du volume des travaux de recherche. Cette contribution présente un code de conduite éthique destiné aux chercheurs qui envisagent de publier leurs études dans le journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. Cet article fera l'objet de discussions et sera régulièrement adapté.
As the Copenhagen negotiations on the form of post Kyoto mechanisms to tackle climate change appr... more As the Copenhagen negotiations on the form of post Kyoto mechanisms to tackle climate change approach, firmly on the agenda are proposals to include Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD). REDD could potentially generate tens of millions of dollars annually for Madagascar, bringing a huge potential to deliver forest conservation and improved livelihoods for the rural Malagasy. Efforts
Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is stil... more Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is still largely understudied despite intense anthropogenic threats including forest loss and edge effects. Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve is a recently expanded rainforest protected area that is lacking detailed surveys and assessments of the native carnivore community of the endemic family Eupleridae. To identify which terrestrial carnivores occupy the reserve and what anthropogenic disturbances and factors best explain their occurrence patterns, we deployed 35 motion-activated cameras to detect native and introduced carnivores. From November 2018 to February 2019, we collected 2918 unique capture events (all species) and confirmed the presence of 5 euplerids: Galidia elegans, Galidictis fasciata, Eupleres goudotii, Fossa fossana, and Cryptoprocta ferox. These results extend the known range of E. goudotii and G. fasciata. In the reserve, F. fossana and G. elegans were the most common and wi...
ABSTRACT Since the 1980s Madagascar has experienced increasing international attention promoting ... more ABSTRACT Since the 1980s Madagascar has experienced increasing international attention promoting conservation and development, attracted by its biodiversity hotspot status. The island has consequently been a testing ground for new approaches to environmental governance including integrated conservation and development projects, community-based natural resource management, new generation co-managed, multiple-use protected areas and the commoditisation of forests and biodiversity through reduced emissions from deforestation and degradation and schemes implementing mining biodiversity offsets. In addition, the liberalisation of economic policies has led to internationally funded agricultural development projects, large-scale land acquisitions for food and biofuel production by foreign corporations and governments, and globally significant mining investments. Policy reforms developed alongside these interventions and were characterised by approaches purportedly designed to improve social and environmental outcomes for the Malagasy people through more participatory forms of governance, which promised greater equity and sustainability. The functional effectiveness, transparency and social justice impacts of new governance approaches and their related environmental and social regulations vary widely, however. This chapter applies a common focus on participation and social justice to case studies of four sectors: agriculture, mining, forests and protected areas. In doing so, we highlight a ‘participation gap’ between intentions and practice with serious implications for social justice, and reflect on what has, and has not, been learned over three decades of environmental governance reforms.
Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is stil... more Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its biodiversity and species endemism, yet it is still largely understudied, despite intense anthropogenic threats, including forest loss and edge effects. Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve is a recently expanded rainforest protected area that is lacking detailed surveys and assessments of the native carnivore community of the endemic family Eupleridae. To identify which terrestrial carnivores occupy the reserve and what anthropogenic disturbances and factors best explain their occurrence patterns, we deployed 35 motion-activated cameras to detect native and introduced carnivores. From November 2018 to February 2019, we collected 2918 unique capture events (all species) and confirmed the presence of 5 euplerids: Galidia elegans, Galidictis fasciata, Eupleres goudotii, Fossa fossana and Cryptoprocta ferox. These results extend the known range of E. goudotii and G. fasciata. In the reserve, F. fossana and G. elegans are the most common and widespread native carnivores, while E. goudotii was the rarest. We highlight the negative impact of edge effects on G. fasciata and F. fossana and the threat posed by the free-ranging non-native carnivore, C. familiaris. This study represents the first detailed survey and occurrence estimates of the carnivore community of this protected area, allowing comparison with other protected areas in Madagascar. Our empirical findings show that anthropogenic disturbance negatively impacts carnivore existence within Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve and suggest important management recommendations for protecting the carnivore community and the co-occurring wildlife living within Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve.
Notes from the exchange and reflection workshop on the mica sector in the Anosy Region, Madagascar on Friday 20th September 2019, 2019
This report is a summary of the discussions held during the one day workshop reflecting on the Mi... more This report is a summary of the discussions held during the one day workshop reflecting on the Mica sector in the Anosy and Androy Regions held in Fort Dauphin on Friday 20th September 2019. Male and female representatives of a dozen mica mines across the region, chosen to maximise representativity met in the conference room of the Hotel Le Port, along with representatives of local civil society organisations, the private sector, UNICEF, international NGOs and researchers. Short presentations were made by the regional director of population, the regional representative of BCMM, the chairman and executive committee members of the Association “Miavotse Anosy Androy”. The remainder of the day was devoted to the participants splitting into eight sub groups, each discussing different themes of social issues facing the people mining mica. The report is intended to be simply a transfer of the specific discussions and reccomendations, without any analysis. Analysis and further discussion are envisaged to be an important next step in the process of supporting mica mining communities to work in better conditions.
Conservation in Madagascar has seen some notable advances over the last two decades; massive poli... more Conservation in Madagascar has seen some notable advances over the last two decades; massive policy reform and the launch of a large number of field - level initiatives have resulted in a range of new policy frameworks and institutions, a reduction in deforestation rates in many ...
Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFl... more Conserving and managing threatened species requires accurate population estimates. Recently, LaFleur et al. (2017) and Gould and Sauther (2016) attempted to estimate the size of the extant population of ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) based on rapid field assessments and published counts from 32 and 34 sites, respectively, and estimated there to be fewer than 2500 ring-tailed lemurs remaining in the wild (Gould and Sauther 2016: 2000–2400 individuals; LaFleur et al. 2017: 2200 individuals). However, both studies have likely severely underestimated the size of the extant ring-tailed lemur population because of a range of methodological problems. Specifically, 1) the population status of several sites was misinterpreted from the literature, 2) population estimates for several important sites are incomplete or lacking, and 3) total population estimates are based on an incomplete sample of known populations.
Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts.... more Ethical conducts are gaining importance in times of increased globalization and research efforts. This paper presents a code of ethical conduct for researchers who plan to publish their studies with the journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. This paper will be subject to continuous adaptations and discussions.
RÉSUMÉ Les conduites éthiques gagnent en importance en ces temps marqués par une mondialisation croissante et une augmentation du volume des travaux de recherche. Cette contribution présente un code de conduite éthique destiné aux chercheurs qui envi-sagent de publier leurs études dans le journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. Cet article fera l'objet de discussions et sera régulièrement adapté.
Wilson L & Ferguson HB (2014) Activity budgets, feeding and habitat preferences and home range si... more Wilson L & Ferguson HB (2014) Activity budgets, feeding and habitat preferences and home range size of Verreaux’s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) Lemur News, Volume 18:34-37
Malagasy lemurs are under great threat from destruction to their habitat, and it is essential to understand how this degradation impacts on them in order to conserve them The behaviour of two groups of a total of 9 Verreaux’s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) was observed from 2nd-29th July 2012 in Mahavelo, southern Madagascar. The study was conducted in two habitats, one subject to selective logging and grazing, the other being largely untouched by disturbance. The sifaka group in the disturbed habitat was found to have a home range size 3-fold that of the group in the less disturbed habitat. Activity budgets were not found to be statistically significant between groups, though ‘Site’ and ‘Time of Day’ combined was found to be a significant explanatory variable for variation in activity budgets. The lemurs at site B (less disturbed) were found to feed on a much larger range of plant species than those at site A (disturbed), and were also found to feed for slightly longer, though this difference was not significant and could potentially be explained by the pregnancy of one of the individuals at site B (less disturbed). These findings suggest that P. verreauxi tolerate habitat fragmentation by broadening their home range and focusing their feeding requirements on a smaller number of important plant species. Future studies should look at the behaviour of a larger number of Verreaux’s sifaka groups at Ifotaka on an annual timescale and quantify more accurately the impact of habitat destruction.
Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriat... more Blow R, Fisher J, Fogletti CB, Wintersgill D, Cornfoot R, Razafindrakoto DGdH, Tsiafa HA, Andriatahinjanahary RSG, Ferguson B & Ratsirarson J (2014) Abundance of five nocturnal species and the influence of habitat characteristics in the littoral forest of Tampolo, northeast Madagascar, Lemur News Volume 18:52-57
Tampolo forest, in the north east of Madagascar, is a protected area of littoral forest, managed by ESSA- Forêts of the University of Antananarivo. Five species of nocturnal lemur are thought to be present in the forest; the aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis), brown mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus), greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major), weasel sportive lemur (Lepilemur mustelinus) and eastern woolly lemur (Avahi laniger). However, currently there is a paucity of data on the density and distribution of these species. We used 20 line transects (0.5km in length) and distance sampling techniques to establish population sizes of lemur species and analysed our results using the software DISTANCE 6.0. The characteristics of lemur-used trees were catalogued during day surveys and compared to those of randomly selected trees to determine which characteristics were ecologically important to lemur species. Results indicate that the estimated population size of A. laniger is 150 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 84-267) and of M. rufus is 323 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 199-523). Only 3 individuals of C. major were observed and no individuals of D. madagascariensis or L. mustelinus were detected during line transects. This suggests low population sizes or potential difficulty in detecting these species, especially D. madagascariensis, which is at low natural densities throughout Madagascar and, given human persecution, has a high tendency for flight in the presence of humans. The average diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of trees used by A. laniger and the average height of trees used by M. rufus were significantly different to randomly selected trees. This suggests that particular trees may be of higher ecological importance to these lemur species than others, which enhances problems caused by deforestation. Our results suggest that the phenology of the trees used by both of these species was not a significant factor, though exploration into previous research suggest that our data may have been biased by seasonality. Further research on feeding ecology would be necessary to determine whether this is an important factor concerning lemur abundance in Tampolo Forest. Repetitions of our study over years to come will also serve to monitor long-term population trends in the region.
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Papers by Barry Ferguson
Interpretations of the Mandrare Valley An Exploration of a concept to bridge the gaps between science and the humanities in an effort to integrate different forms of knowledge for the management of the new generation of protected areas in Madagascar
‘Landscape Character’ is about People & Place
Protected areas in Madagascar were until recently based on the
idea of places where natural wildernesses should be protected from
people. This concept works for the core of a protected area network.
However when one goes beyond such core wilderness areas, which can
be strictly protected, it is obvious that people live within and mould
the landscape. Approaches to landscape conservation need to take
account of the diversity of objectives held by the stakeholders of a
given landscape.
The new generation of protected areas which are under
development across the island, give the opportunity to recognise that
Man is an integral part of Madagascar’s landscapes, and that he should
remain so. An understanding of landscape being used in this context
should accept that they are dynamic and that cultural and social
factors are of equal importance to natural elements. Indeed it is the
combination of the natural and social dimensions of an area which give
it its character and which can be part of the basis for regional
development.
Landscape Character Assessment is a process which could help
stakeholders from different backgrounds to understand the
complexity of their landscape and to develop a common
understanding on which to base the planning within this category of
new protected areas. Landscape character is a distinct, recognisable
and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one
place different from another.
RÉSUMÉ
Les conduites éthiques gagnent en importance en ces temps marqués par une mondialisation croissante et une augmentation du volume des travaux de recherche. Cette contribution présente un code de conduite éthique destiné aux chercheurs qui envi-sagent de publier leurs études dans le journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. Cet article fera l'objet de discussions et sera régulièrement adapté.
Malagasy lemurs are under great threat from destruction
to their habitat, and it is essential to understand how this
degradation impacts on them in order to conserve them
The behaviour of two groups of a total of 9 Verreaux’s sifaka
(Propithecus verreauxi) was observed from 2nd-29th July
2012 in Mahavelo, southern Madagascar. The study was conducted
in two habitats, one subject to selective logging and
grazing, the other being largely untouched by disturbance.
The sifaka group in the disturbed habitat was found to have
a home range size 3-fold that of the group in the less disturbed
habitat. Activity budgets were not found to be statistically
significant between groups, though ‘Site’ and ‘Time
of Day’ combined was found to be a significant explanatory
variable for variation in activity budgets. The lemurs at site B
(less disturbed) were found to feed on a much larger range
of plant species than those at site A (disturbed), and were
also found to feed for slightly longer, though this difference
was not significant and could potentially be explained
by the pregnancy of one of the individuals at site B (less
disturbed). These findings suggest that P. verreauxi tolerate
habitat fragmentation by broadening their home range and
focusing their feeding requirements on a smaller number of
important plant species. Future studies should look at the
behaviour of a larger number of Verreaux’s sifaka groups at
Ifotaka on an annual timescale and quantify more accurately
the impact of habitat destruction.
Tampolo forest, in the north east of Madagascar, is a protected
area of littoral forest, managed by ESSA- Forêts of
the University of Antananarivo. Five species of nocturnal
lemur are thought to be present in the forest; the aye-aye
(Daubentonia madagascariensis), brown mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus), greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major), weasel sportive lemur (Lepilemur mustelinus) and eastern woolly lemur (Avahi laniger). However, currently there is a paucity of data on the density and distribution of these species.
We used 20 line transects (0.5km in length) and distance
sampling techniques to establish population sizes of lemur
species and analysed our results using the software DISTANCE
6.0. The characteristics of lemur-used trees were
catalogued during day surveys and compared to those of
randomly selected trees to determine which characteristics
were ecologically important to lemur species. Results
indicate that the estimated population size of A. laniger is
150 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 84-267) and
of M. rufus is 323 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval:
199-523). Only 3 individuals of C. major were observed and
no individuals of D. madagascariensis or L. mustelinus were
detected during line transects. This suggests low population
sizes or potential difficulty in detecting these species, especially
D. madagascariensis, which is at low natural densities
throughout Madagascar and, given human persecution,
has a high tendency for flight in the presence of humans.
The average diameter at breast height (DBH) and height
of trees used by A. laniger and the average height of trees
used by M. rufus were significantly different to randomly selected trees. This suggests that particular trees may be of
higher ecological importance to these lemur species than
others, which enhances problems caused by deforestation.
Our results suggest that the phenology of the trees used by
both of these species was not a significant factor, though exploration into previous research suggest that our data may
have been biased by seasonality. Further research on feeding
ecology would be necessary to determine whether this is
an important factor concerning lemur abundance in Tampolo
Forest. Repetitions of our study over years to come
will also serve to monitor long-term population trends in
the region.
Interpretations of the Mandrare Valley An Exploration of a concept to bridge the gaps between science and the humanities in an effort to integrate different forms of knowledge for the management of the new generation of protected areas in Madagascar
‘Landscape Character’ is about People & Place
Protected areas in Madagascar were until recently based on the
idea of places where natural wildernesses should be protected from
people. This concept works for the core of a protected area network.
However when one goes beyond such core wilderness areas, which can
be strictly protected, it is obvious that people live within and mould
the landscape. Approaches to landscape conservation need to take
account of the diversity of objectives held by the stakeholders of a
given landscape.
The new generation of protected areas which are under
development across the island, give the opportunity to recognise that
Man is an integral part of Madagascar’s landscapes, and that he should
remain so. An understanding of landscape being used in this context
should accept that they are dynamic and that cultural and social
factors are of equal importance to natural elements. Indeed it is the
combination of the natural and social dimensions of an area which give
it its character and which can be part of the basis for regional
development.
Landscape Character Assessment is a process which could help
stakeholders from different backgrounds to understand the
complexity of their landscape and to develop a common
understanding on which to base the planning within this category of
new protected areas. Landscape character is a distinct, recognisable
and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one
place different from another.
RÉSUMÉ
Les conduites éthiques gagnent en importance en ces temps marqués par une mondialisation croissante et une augmentation du volume des travaux de recherche. Cette contribution présente un code de conduite éthique destiné aux chercheurs qui envi-sagent de publier leurs études dans le journal Madagascar Conservation & Development. Cet article fera l'objet de discussions et sera régulièrement adapté.
Malagasy lemurs are under great threat from destruction
to their habitat, and it is essential to understand how this
degradation impacts on them in order to conserve them
The behaviour of two groups of a total of 9 Verreaux’s sifaka
(Propithecus verreauxi) was observed from 2nd-29th July
2012 in Mahavelo, southern Madagascar. The study was conducted
in two habitats, one subject to selective logging and
grazing, the other being largely untouched by disturbance.
The sifaka group in the disturbed habitat was found to have
a home range size 3-fold that of the group in the less disturbed
habitat. Activity budgets were not found to be statistically
significant between groups, though ‘Site’ and ‘Time
of Day’ combined was found to be a significant explanatory
variable for variation in activity budgets. The lemurs at site B
(less disturbed) were found to feed on a much larger range
of plant species than those at site A (disturbed), and were
also found to feed for slightly longer, though this difference
was not significant and could potentially be explained
by the pregnancy of one of the individuals at site B (less
disturbed). These findings suggest that P. verreauxi tolerate
habitat fragmentation by broadening their home range and
focusing their feeding requirements on a smaller number of
important plant species. Future studies should look at the
behaviour of a larger number of Verreaux’s sifaka groups at
Ifotaka on an annual timescale and quantify more accurately
the impact of habitat destruction.
Tampolo forest, in the north east of Madagascar, is a protected
area of littoral forest, managed by ESSA- Forêts of
the University of Antananarivo. Five species of nocturnal
lemur are thought to be present in the forest; the aye-aye
(Daubentonia madagascariensis), brown mouse lemur (Microcebus rufus), greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major), weasel sportive lemur (Lepilemur mustelinus) and eastern woolly lemur (Avahi laniger). However, currently there is a paucity of data on the density and distribution of these species.
We used 20 line transects (0.5km in length) and distance
sampling techniques to establish population sizes of lemur
species and analysed our results using the software DISTANCE
6.0. The characteristics of lemur-used trees were
catalogued during day surveys and compared to those of
randomly selected trees to determine which characteristics
were ecologically important to lemur species. Results
indicate that the estimated population size of A. laniger is
150 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval: 84-267) and
of M. rufus is 323 individuals/km2 (95% confidence interval:
199-523). Only 3 individuals of C. major were observed and
no individuals of D. madagascariensis or L. mustelinus were
detected during line transects. This suggests low population
sizes or potential difficulty in detecting these species, especially
D. madagascariensis, which is at low natural densities
throughout Madagascar and, given human persecution,
has a high tendency for flight in the presence of humans.
The average diameter at breast height (DBH) and height
of trees used by A. laniger and the average height of trees
used by M. rufus were significantly different to randomly selected trees. This suggests that particular trees may be of
higher ecological importance to these lemur species than
others, which enhances problems caused by deforestation.
Our results suggest that the phenology of the trees used by
both of these species was not a significant factor, though exploration into previous research suggest that our data may
have been biased by seasonality. Further research on feeding
ecology would be necessary to determine whether this is
an important factor concerning lemur abundance in Tampolo
Forest. Repetitions of our study over years to come
will also serve to monitor long-term population trends in
the region.