In southern Madagascar, a community has come together to save thousands of critically endangered tortoises after they were swept away by floodwaters caused by tropical cyclone Dikeledi earlier this month. The disaster struck the Lavavolo Tortoise Centre, which is home to around 12,000 tortoises, including the radiated and spider species. These tortoises, many between 25 and 50 years old, had previously been rescued from illegal wildlife trafficking operations.
The floodwaters, rising up to a meter in height, inundated the sanctuary and carried the tortoises away. “The centre was flooded like we never experienced it before. It was a big shock for the team and the animals,” said Rakotonanahary Tsanta Fiderana, Head of Veterinary Support at Turtle Survival Alliance Madagascar.
Staff from the sanctuary, along with local volunteers and even police officers, worked tirelessly to locate and rescue the displaced tortoises, using basins to scoop up the animals from the floodwaters. Unfortunately, about 700 tortoises were found dead, trapped by debris and rocks.

While most of the tortoises have been safely returned to the sanctuary, the damage to the facility has been extensive. “We still need to do an official count, which is not easy as tortoises can move faster than you think when they want to and rarely cooperate,” said Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, Madagascar director for the Turtle Survival Alliance.
Radiated tortoises, native to Madagascar and nearby islands, are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching. Their distinctive yellow and black shells make them prime targets for illegal wildlife trade, both as pets and as food. Once abundant in Madagascar, radiated tortoises now occupy only 35% of their original habitat. Efforts like those at the Lavavolo sanctuary remain crucial to their survival.
The community’s swift response has been a lifeline for these endangered tortoises, but the struggle to preserve them continues.