Researching Betampona's Biodiversity

The creation of a research station coupled with the expertise of MFG staff allows visiting scientists to be more effective. Besides ruffed lemurs, indri and aye-aye can also be seen in the reserve - along with 8 more lemur species. In addition to the extraordinary primates, the reserve is home to 10 other endemic mammal species including 5 carnivores. And above a wealth of botanical wonders, over 85 species of birds take flight including Madagascar crested ibis, Henst's goshawk, and various ground-rollers.

American Museum of Natural History herpetologist and Madagascar expert Dr. Chris Raxworthy recently surveyed Betampona's nearly 100 reptilian and amphibian species. He noted, "We already have several candidate new species for the reserve . . . this is a super-diverse reserve, with highly threatened species, and yet a cake-walk for access, and easily the most researcher-friendly environment I have ever worked in for Madagascar (the staff are top-notch)."

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© 2005 Madagascar Fauna Group