Besely

Our tortoise conservation project commenced in 2017. Situated in Besely, 20km south of Itampolo (Ampanihy District), this designated forest of coastal spiny bush covering an area of 900 hectares—shared and playing a crucial role by the riparian communities of Behavoa, Sakariake, Befolotse, and Besely—harbors 4,300 Astrochelys radiata and 150 Pyxis arachnoides not exhaustive. Apart from preserving this habitat, the project's primary aim in the initial phase is to ensure the protection

and survival of adult wild tortoises, followed by bolstering the recruitment rate of the population through a breeding program.

Habitat destruction, poaching to supply the illegal pet trade, and hunting for local consumption of its meat are the threats that have made the situation of the radiated tortoise very concerning. Biologists working on the species unanimously agree on the risk of its extinction in the near future decades.

Continuously conducted conservation activities focus on the census and monitoring of the tortoise population, with each individual being equipped with an electronic chip. Evaluation and control of human activity, primarily based on the breeding of ruminant cattle, are also key aspects. The 10 patrol agents recruited and trained by BCM ensure perimeter surveillance, supplemented by effective community involvement.

Based on observations and monitoring, we have noted a significant decline in the radiated tortoise population, with very few hatchlings and juveniles compared to the overall population. We have raised several questions in an attempt to understand and explain the reasons behind this decline.

Are there fewer mating activities among the animals?
Is it due to extreme heat and a lack of water preventing egg development?
Are there enough hatchling tortoises but they are quickly preyed upon by predators?
What are these predators?
Are hatchling tortoises being crushed by the cattle released to graze within the perimeter?

Additionally, there is apparent competition for both young and adult tortoises against these cattle for food provided by the sparse herbaceous layers.

Efforts in conservation actions are undertaken to teach our future generations to adopt good environmental behaviors, to help them appreciate and understand the value of their heritage. Improving their education is paramount. BCM has started to contribute to the development of the youth in Besely by constructing classrooms and providing more comfortable facilities.