News & Events

Update from Madagascar: Tortoises in Triage

Due to the catastrophic flooding in Madagascar on January 16, 2025, we have mobilized efforts to save as many tortoises as possible. The next step in our recovery is triage and care. At this critical time, veterinary students from the University of Antananarivo’s Department of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine, along with logistical support from our zoo partners in conservation, have mobilized to provide support for the care of the tortoises at the Lavavolo Tortoise Center. Read more for updates from Head of Veterinary Support for Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar, Tsanta Fiderana Rakotonanahary.

Update From Madagascar: The Tortoises are in Good Hands

by Tsanta Fiderana Rakotonanahary

Although the immediate threat of flooding from Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi on January 16 has subsided and previous floodwaters have receded, heavy rains are currently inundating the Lavavolo Tortoise Center, causing it to flood once again. Thankfully, the thousands of tortoises and vital equipment have already been moved to high ground, but the immense task of caring for the tortoises affected by this ongoing crisis remains.

I am the Head of Veterinary Support for Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar, based at our program headquarters in the capital city of Antananarivo (Tana). When we first learned of the emergency at the Lavavolo Tortoise Center, my team and I immediately mobilized to prepare our response. As I am currently far from the center and unable to travel, my role in this crisis is to provide guidance on task prioritization, while also offering psychological support to ensure the safety, well-being, and efficiency of our staff and volunteers as they work to save these tortoises.

From the outset, we were fortunate to have the support of veterinarians and veterinary students from the University of Antananarivo’s Department of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine, a school that has consistently provided critical support in crisis situations. Despite the Lavavolo Tortoise Center being more than 730 km (450 mi) and three days’ travel from Tana, these dedicated volunteers have generously offered their time and skills to aid the tortoises in need, playing a crucial role in the triage process.

To triage the tortoises rescued from the dangerous floodwaters, we begin by assessing their health to develop appropriate treatment plans, which often include tube-feeding, administering antibiotics, and providing anti-inflammatory care. Preventative measures for pneumonia are a high priority, as the stress and exposure to floodwaters can make the tortoises more susceptible. With most of the enclosures destroyed, finding adequate shelter is critical to help regulate their body temperature during recovery, especially as the weather has turned sunny, with daily highs around 30°C (mid to upper 80s°F).

Many tortoises have not eaten for days after the trauma of the flood, making food preparation an immediate priority. We do our best to provide a high standard of care for the animals, even in this chaotic situation. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our volunteers and staff, we have been able to quickly prepare thousands of kilograms of tortoise food. The entire triage process for the remaining 11,500 tortoises is a monumental task and is expected to take at least a month to complete.

These efforts are just the beginning of what will be required from our team in the foreseeable future as we recover and rebuild. The Lavavolo Tortoise Center is located in a remote part of Madagascar, where it can take several days for supplies to arrive. Based on our initial assessments, incoming funds will help us purchase supplies such as:

• Water pump and water purifiers
• Veterinary supplies, including syringes, serum, antibiotics, etc. 
• Veterinary tools and equipment, including microscopes, refrigerators, autoclaves, etc.
• Essentials for staff housing, including beds, tables, chairs, and other basic amenities

Despite the significant challenges ahead, I have unwavering confidence in the resilience and dedication of my team. Even in the most difficult moments of this crisis, they remained positive and committed to saving the tortoises. I am deeply grateful for their swift responses and clear communication, even when the water levels were at their peak. I am incredibly proud of their achievements and know that, with their continued support, we will overcome this crisis together.

A heartfelt thank you to all of the Turtle Survival Alliance supporters who have contributed or shared this story. We remain hopeful that brighter days lie ahead.

Tsanta Fiderana Rakotonanahary, Head of Veterinary Support, Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar

If you’d like to make an impact for the veterinary staff and tortoises, consider a donation today. Give a gift that saves lives and rebuilds hope—your help is needed now more than ever.