Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world, roughly the size of California. It contains a variety of ecosystems, from wet rainforests to dry spiny forests to mangroves--and everything in between. Over 90% of the species on the island are endemic, which means they are found nowhere else in the world. You may be familiar with Madagascar’s lemurs, but did you know there are about 115 different species? Did you know they can be found only in Madagascar?
Madagascar is also home to species of other mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians which are also endemic. Sadly, most of these species are threatened with extinction. We will lose this precious biodiversity, the diversity of plants and animals, unless we find a respectful balance between people and the environment.
Madagascar’s lush forests support the communities around them. However, these forests are disappearing rapidly as people and industries cut down trees for agriculture and gold mining. Coastal communities rely on fishing and some communities rely on tourism.
Poor infrastructure means that people don’t have access to basic necessities. Many villagers need to hike six hours or more to reach the nearest road or town. Transportation is often the biggest hurdle.
