Entering a new era of collaboration for conservation in Mauritius

Mauritius is a very important place for the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, partly because it highlights what can go wrong for island species through the introduction of non-native species, habitat loss and direct persecution. With over 95% of its native forest gone and nearly all the native fauna removed or restricted to tiny patches; Mauritius was almost a conservation write-off. A very cogent case could be made for why bother restoring species, why not spend that energy and money somewhere else. And yet, and more importantly, Mauritius is a great example of what can go right when people have dedication and long-term investment.
 

Durrell has just signed a new Memorandum of Understanding – a document that defines the scope of our partnership - with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. This is interesting and noteworthy because of the breadth of activities and strength of collaboration it highlights. 

They are looking deeper into how ecosystems work, and taking bold actions like introducing species that aren’t native to Mauritius but  can restore extinct but vital ecological roles (ecological analogue species).

Dedicated field conservation; skilled animal husbandry and a commitment to passing on those skills and experience to a new generation of conservationists.  This is what Durrell does best.  Original article by Andrew Terry/ Photos from the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.