Edith Xavier Miharison
Madagascar is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, with an exceptionally high level of endemism. Yet its forest ecosystems face increasing pressures from habitat fragmentation and human activities. Among the least studied threats are domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and cats (Felis catus), which are widespread in rural landscapes and often roam near or within natural forests.
This project is implemented within the Ankeniheny–Zahamena forest corridor, a Key Biodiversity Area connecting several protected areas in eastern Madagascar, with the Nouvelle Aire Protégée of Maromizaha serving as the principal study site. This region is home to threatened species such as fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox), the spotted fanaloka (Fossa fossana), endemic lemurs, ground-nesting birds, and reptiles. While dogs and cats are important to local communities for protection, hunting, and rodent control, their free-ranging behaviour can lead to predation on wildlife, competition with endemic carnivores, and broader ecological disruption.
Supported by the Rufford Foundation, this project will deliver the first integrated ecological and social assessment of domestic carnivore impacts in this critical landscape. Using camera traps, field surveys, and ecological analyses, the study will quantify spatial overlap, predation patterns, and interactions between domestic and endemic species, identifying the most vulnerable habitats and wildlife.
At the same time, household surveys, interviews, and participatory discussions will explore local perceptions and management practices related to dogs and cats. Understanding these socio-cultural factors is essential for designing strategies that are both effective and socially acceptable.
The findings will be used to co-develop practical management strategies with local communities, including promoting responsible pet ownership and measures to limit free-ranging behaviour. The project will also strengthen local capacity by engaging Malagasy students and community members in ecological monitoring and data collection.
By combining rigorous science with participatory approaches, this initiative aims to reduce human-mediated pressures on endemic wildlife while promoting sustainable coexistence between people and nature. Ultimately, it will provide practical recommendations, build local expertise, and support the long-term conservation of one of Madagascar’s most important forest landscapes.