Project Update: January 2008

“I have completed the first stage of my project which was to conduct a reconnaissance of forest sites believed to contain Mantella aurantiaca. Based on published accounts and interviews with animal collectors I visited 12 localities. I have confirmed 11 populations of M. aurantiaca and a further 10 were reported but no animals seen.

At three sites it appeared that M. aurantiaca has become extinct. Whilst in the field I have collected information on forest management and the presence of any local community organizations so that I can prepare the habitat conservation plans. The reconnaissance has allowed me to prepare a detailed and realistic logistic plan for the next stage of my project which is to visit every population to conduct a rapid abundance assessment. I also participated in a workshop to evaluate the Amphibian Conservation Plan for Madagascar and was able to align my own project with national biodiversity priorities.”