A flood at a sanctuary resulted in thousands of tortoises being saved.

In the wake of massive floods that swept through their sanctuary, thousands of critically endangered tortoises were left struggling for their lives. The Lavavolo Tortoise Center in southern Madagascar was hit hard by this natural disaster, leaving the 12,000 confiscated radiated and spider tortoises in a state of terror. But amidst the chaos, the local community banded together to save these precious creatures.

It all started when Cyclone Dikeledi slammed into the southern part of the Indian Ocean island in mid-January, causing flood waters to rise over 3 feet high and engulf the sanctuary. The tortoises, many of them only 25-50 years old, were swept away in the rushing waters. But thanks to the quick thinking and selfless actions of sanctuary staff, community members, and even police officers, a rescue operation was launched.

Wading through the flood waters, the rescuers used large containers to collect the bewildered tortoises, who were moving faster than anyone had anticipated. Some even used damaged building structures as makeshift rafts to transport the tortoises to safety. Despite the challenges, over 10,000 tortoises were believed to have been saved, while around 700 were found dead, trapped by rocks and debris.

While many may not realize it, tortoises are actually very good swimmers. Hery Razafimamonjiraibe, the Madagascar director for the Turtle Survival Alliance, praised the swimming abilities of these creatures, saying "You should see them." Unfortunately, the floods did take a toll on the sanctuary, causing damage to much of its infrastructure.

The Lavavolo Tortoise Center is home to mainly radiated tortoises, a species native to Madagascar known for their striking yellow and black markings. These tortoises can live for over 100 years, with the oldest known radiated tortoise dying at the age of 188 in 1966. Sadly, due to habitat destruction and poaching, radiated and spider tortoises are critically endangered in Madagascar.

They are often hunted for food, but also illegally trafficked as pets because of their unique appearance. The Turtle Survival Alliance is working tirelessly to protect and conserve these tortoises, and the community's efforts in the face of the recent floods is a testament to their dedication. Together, we can continue to save these precious creatures and ensure they have a future in the wild.

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