SEED Madagascar

In May 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to the littoral forest of Sainte Luce, in south-eastern Madagascar, to volunteer with the SEED Conservation Research Programme (SCRP). Even before my departure, I felt safe in the hands of the SEED team. They assisted me in organising every detail of the trip, providing me with extensive information, which left me feeling confident and well-prepared for my journey. From the moment I arrived in Sainte Luce, I was warmly welcomed by the SCRP team, along with a delicious meal – the first of many to come.

During just two weeks in Sainte Luce, I was able to contribute the following research and conservation efforts:

• Long-term daytime and nighttime monitoring surveys of lemurs (Eulemur collaris, Microcebus tonasi, Avahi meridrionalis, and Cheirogaleus tomali).
• Long-term daytime and nighttime monitoring surveys of herpetofauna (frogs, snakes, chameleons, geckos, and skinks).
• A pilot study on the behaviour and population demography of Phelsuma antanosy, a critically endangered, micro-endemic day gecko.
• Translocation of Pandanus longistylus plants from unprotected to protected forests, in preparation for the potential translocation of Phelsuma antanosy.
• Population estimate surveys of Pteropus rufus (Madagascar Flying Fox) at roost sites.
• Camera trap monitoring and data processing in forest corridors.
• Delivering a lesson in a local school on the six endangered palm species in Sainte Luce.

Although my participation in the SCRP was part of a placement for my master’s degree in ecology and conservation, my experience extended far beyond academics. The simplicity of life in the bush allowed me to disconnect from the pressures of everyday life and fully immerse myself in both the work and the environment. Each day brought long walks through a variety of terrains, completely immersed in biodiversity, so even when I wasn’t actively collecting data I was still learning, observing, and enjoying the wonders of nature.

The vast knowledge and passion of conservation shown by the international and Malagasy staff was truly inspiring. Engaging with the local communities also offered a fresh perspective on the human dimensions of conservation, exposing me to different ways of life and the importance of local involvement in protecting the environment. Despite my self-confessed lack of skill with languages, I even ventured into learning some Malagasy phrases, allowing me to better communicate with the people around me. 

The combination of making meaningful contributions to conservation, collaborating with inspiring people, and being surrounded by unique biodiversity made this trip one of the most enriching experiences of my life.

Misaotra SEED Madagascar! ~ Caitlin Moffatt, July 2024​​​​