Festival of Wildlife - Expert Blog - Dr Rainer Dolch
"This year's Festival of Wildlife in Madagascar was characterized by stunning animal observations, some of which were totally unexpected (Humpback Dolphin, Leaf-Nosed Snake). There were also plenty of close views of usually hard-to-find species such as Madagascar Pygmy Kingfisher and Uroplatus phantasticus. Even species that are as familiar to me as Indri and Diademed Sifaka seemed to be exceptionally close to welcome the Festival of Wildlife. Logically, I deeply enjoyed sharing my knowledge about Madagascar's amazing biodiversity with all of you.
The magnificent Anjajavy Lodge, its plentiful birdlife, and the spectacular scenery of the surrounding landscape and ocean were also a first-time experience for me. This luxuriant environment was only rivalled by the splendour of lodging and beach barbecues.
The absolutely amiable wildlife enthusiasts taking part in the Festival of Wildlife made it a particular pleasure. I here express my heartfelt gratitude to them for demonstrating their enthusiasm by way of an extraordinary financial contribution to Association Mitsinjo's important conservation work in Madagascar.
Last but not least, my special thanks go to the Festival of Wildlife organizers for choosing two exceptionally diverse destinations and fine lodging. In short, thanks for mastering the logistics of a fabulous experience!"
With a doctorate from the University of Gottingen, Dr Rainer Dolch has been involved in research and conservation in Madagascar for 10 years. He helped establish Association Mitsinjo in Andasibe and he is now the organisations Director. Working very closely with all local communities, Association Mitsinjo aims to protect important biodiversity in the Andasibe area, while integrating this with the needs of local people. Rainer was part of the team that recently discovered a previously unknown population of the exceedingly rare Greater Bamboo Lemur, in forests close to Andasibe.
Association Mitsinjo has initiated forest regeneration programs whereby they fund the planting of endemic plant species into forest areas which have become overrun with invasive species or slashed and burned for grazing purposes. This year's Festival auction and raffle raised £5,276 for Association Mitsinjo to help with their work. If you would also like to support them then please contact Mel Kinder on 01962 737642 for further information.
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