Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) is thrilled to announce that we have received a groundbreaking, three-year grant from the Fondation Segré to protect the critical Cap Sainte-Marie Special Reserve (CSM). This initiative aims to secure the future of the Radiated Tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) through an innovative, community-focused action plan.
Located at the southernmost tip of Madagascar, with stunning cliffside ocean views and an iconic lighthouse, Cap Sainte-Marie is one of the last natural strongholds for this iconic species, which is protected both by national law and CITES, and is listed on the IUCN Red List. Given the historical decline of tortoise populations in the southern habitats, Cap Sainte-Marie is a critical site for Turtle Survival Alliance’s reintroduction programs.
Despite its status as a protected area, Cap Sainte-Marie faces numerous threats, including:
- Poaching: Adults are taken for the local bushmeat trade, while juveniles are smuggled internationally for the illegal pet trade.
- Habitat Loss: The unique spiny forest ecosystem is rapidly disappearing due to agricultural expansion, deforestation, and charcoal production.
- Invasive Species: The red prickly pear cactus (Opuntia stricta) is rapidly overtaking native vegetation.
- Resource Scarcity: A lack of financial and human resources has historically hindered effective park maintenance and surveillance.
TSA has previously established a partnership with Madagascar National Parks (MNP), which currently manages the reserve, to strengthen the management capacity of the Cap Sainte-Marie Special Reserve. As part of this partnership, TSA has previously supported MNP in managing the reserve and addressing pressures such as poaching, which remains the primary driver of tortoise population decline. Building on our previous efforts, this new project focuses on five strategic pillars:
- Strengthening Reserve Management: TSA will maintain reserve boundaries, trails, and maintenance tracks, thereby reducing unauthorized entry, ensuring efficient patrolling, and improving the overall visitor experience.
- Anti-Poaching and Security: In collaboration with MNP, local authorities, and local communities, we will train and support regular patrols of the reserve and increase interception and deterrence at strategic reserve entry points.
- Reintroduction: We will release 2,000 confiscated tortoises at CSM and monitor the released tortoises and their habitat for at least two years post-release
- Turning Invasive Species into Opportunity: Working with local communities, TSA will control the spread of invasive Opuntia by removing the species from 10 hectares of priority habitat and supporting the recovery of indigenous vegetation through a combination of active and passive restoration interventions. The removed Opuntia will then be transformed into biochar, jam, or soap.
- Community Engagement: Conservation only works when it benefits the people who live alongside wildlife. TSA will engage at least 200 community members around CSM through outreach and formal Conservation Agreements. These agreements will provide incentives, such as alternative livelihood training, for high-performing villages that successfully protect their local tortoise populations.
Looking Ahead
The future of the Radiated Tortoise depends on secure protected areas and dedicated community stewardship. By combining modern technology with traditional community engagement, TSA and its partners are working to ensure that Cap Sainte-Marie remains a stronghold for this iconic species for generations to come.
Acknowledgements: Foundation Segre
Header image by Brett Bartek.