First mission to inventory the chameleons of Makay: let's go!

The first mission to inventory chameleons and other reptiles in the Makay massif has just begun, marking a key milestone in our research and conservation programme in this largely unexplored region of Madagascar. Led by the NGO Naturevolution, which has been active in Makay for several years, in collaboration with Caméléon Center Conservation, this project aims to better document the herpetological richness of this unique massif and strengthen local skills for its preservation.

The mission is being carried out in the field by Martin Etave, our project manager, who is supervising training and data collection activities alongside local eco-guides. The latter are learning to master scientific inventory protocols and use various environmental measurement instruments. This expertise is essential to ensure the reliability and quality of the data collected during the expeditions.

The initial results are already promising: several species of reptiles have been identified, including specimens of chameleons of the genus Furcifer viridis.

Inventory of chameleons in Makay, Madagascar

Inventory of chameleons in Makay, Madagascar

Beyond the scientific aspect, this project is also a great chance to raise awareness among local communities. Talking with people in the field helps explain the biodiversity issues around them in a real way. Through simple, easy-to-understand examples, the eco-guides learn how each species plays a key role in keeping their environment balanced. They can thus better understand the consequences that the disappearance of certain species could have on the entire ecosystem.

The second mission, scheduled for June and focused on the southern part of the massif, will complete this first phase. It will enrich our knowledge of the species present and lay the foundations for concrete conservation actions in this exceptional but particularly vulnerable region.