Jean Claude Razafimahaimodison
Ph.D. Candidate, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts

"Determining the Impact of Increasing Development and Ecotourism on the Native Malagasy Ground Roller Bird in Southeastern Madagascar"

(Category: Conservation of Animal Resources)

The use of natural habitats for recreational and educational purposes (ecotourism) is often encouraged as a means of promoting conservation by educating people about the importance of environmental factors to the survival of species and to provide information about advances in environmental monitoring. However, it may also lead to increased disturbance to native species in the area as new paths or trails in forested habitats are created, and the incidence of increased noise levels and damage to critical vegetation occurs. Alteration and fragmentation of its habitat are the main concerns for the survival of the most endangered species of the ground roller bird. This bird is found only in the rainforests of eastern Madagascar, and they are very selective in the use of plants with which they line their nests. During this study, Razafimahaimodison will compare the breeding success of ground rollers within a habitat impacted by ecotourism and one that has not been so affected. He will work with local conservationists and conservation agencies to develop new strategies to help save this bird by making recommendations for changes in the use of the habitat by tourists.