Improving Fossa Conservation by Reducing Threats to Species and Habitat in Madagascar

Madagascar’s unique biodiversity is under severe threat from deforestation, habitat loss, and human activity, putting many species at risk of extinction. To address this, urgent conservation efforts are needed to protect its ecosystems and wildlife.

This project combines the expertise of Malagasy partners and researchers from the University of Torino to achieve five key conservation goals in Madagascar’s eastern rainforests, focusing on the Ankeniheny–Zahamena Corridor and the Maromizaha New Protected Area and surroundings.

Using the fossa, Madagascar’s largest carnivore, as a model species, the project will evaluate the impacts of habitat loss, human disturbance, and species persecution. The aim is to promote forest preservation, restore degraded habitats, and engage local communities in long-term conservation efforts. This includes designing effective strategies for forest restoration and strict protection of critical corridors. The project will also build the capacity of local staff, equipping them to contribute to research and conservation and become future leaders in protecting their wildlife and habitats.