Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation

🔔🔔🔔MBC is recruiting. Please share!

Incredible Progress in Bhutan's Conservation Efforts! 🌿

We are proud to support the conservation of the golden langur in Bhutan with Kuenzang Dorji, a PhD Candidate at the University of Calgary and TDARFAC grant recipient. His recent project empowered 30 local foresters with essential skills in designing and conducting biodiversity surveys focused on the golden langur, a vital species in the region.

Beyond this, we've fostered a conservation conscience among local communities, reaching individuals of all ages. Through open consultations with more than 20 local people, including two women groups, we’ve promoted a vital dialogue on human-langur tolerance, paving the way for peaceful coexistence.

This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated support from all our partners and the community members who participated. Together, we’re making a difference! 🙌

Domestic dogs have been an under-appreciated threat to the conservation of Madagascar's unique and amazing wildlife. Through competition, predation, and disease spread their impact can be large and lasting. MDI's efforts to spay/neuter and vaccinate dog populations in and around protected areas in Madagascar is an effort to mitigate this risk of dog's to wildlife!

In addition to our veterinary work, MDI is also actively involved in research to better understand the extent of the threat posed by these dog populations. This includes camera trap surveys to identify patterns of forest incursion and disease monitoring!

If you want to know more or learn how you can help, please visit our website: https://www.maddoginitiative.com/take-action .

Pictured below, a group of domestic dogs traveling down a trail in Mantadia National Park.

“Izaho, ianao hifanome tanana sy hiaro ny zavaboary Malagasy.”

🌍Tsy ho ela: Haingo zava-kanto mahafinaritra miendrika varika ! 🌍

Hafaliana ho anay ny mizara ny ezaka fanangonam-bola ho an’ny fiarovana ny zavaboary Malagasy sy ny mpiray tanindrazana Malagasy, amin’ny alalan’ny fivarotana ny haingo zava-kanto miendrika varika, izay iarahana amin’ny “Tanana Silk Madagascar”!
Ny hakanton’ireo haingo vita tanana ireo no fomba iray entina hanohanana ny asa famerenana amin'ny laoniny ny ala ho an'ny varika eto Madagasikara, ny fanohanana ny mpanao asa tanana sy ny tantsaha Malagasy, ary ny fiarovana ny zavaboary izay harena sarobidy Malagasy.

🙊Ahoana ny mahakasika ilay Haingo? Haingo miavaka namboarin'ireo mpanao asa tanana Malagasy, izay vita avy amin’ny akoran-damba landy voaangona amin'ny fomba maharitra. Ireo haingo ireo dia maneho ny karazana varika indri sy sifaka diadema izay anisan’ny mampalaza an’i Madagasikara.

🌳Mankaiza ny vola azo avy aminy?
Ny haingo tsirairay dia azo vidiana amin'ny vidiny 30$. Ny vidiny dia mizara mazava tsara tahaka izao:
☑️10$ ho fanohanana ny famerenana ny ala (fambolen-kazo) izay mampitohy ny Valan-javaboarin'i Andasibe-Mantadia sy ny Tahiry arovana Analamazoatra.
☑️10$ hanohanana ny mpanao asa tanana, tantsaha, ary ny fandaharan'asa fiarovana ny zavaboary izay sahanin’ny Tanana.
☑️10$ hanohanana ny toeram-pivarotana asa tanana Malagasy.

🌱 Amin'ny fandraisanao anjara amin'ity fanangonam-bola ity, dia hanampy anay ianao amin'ny famerenana ny ala Malagasy izay tandindon-doza ary hanohana ny fiainana sy ny asa fiveloman'ny mponina eto Madagasikara.

🌟Antso ho an'ireo orinasa sy toeram-pivarotana asa tanana Malagasy🌟
Raha liana ny handray anjara amin'ny fivarotana ireo haingo zavakanto mahafinaritra ireo ianao, dia faly izahay handray anao sy hiara-hiasa aminao! Ity no tolotra sy fotoana lehibe iray hahafahan-tsika miaraka hanatratra ny tanjona tsara iray ho an’i Madagasikara ary koa hanomezanao zavatra miavaka ny mpanjifanao.

📬 Mifandraisa aminay:
https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/ourteam

Manasa anao hifandray aminay avy hatrany raha mila fanampim-panazavana bebe kokoa. Andao hifanome tanana! Indro ary misy topy maso kely an’ilay haingo mahatalanjona.

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🌍 Coming Soon: Lemur Art Ornament Fundraiser! 🌍

We’re excited to announce our upcoming Lemur Art Ornament Fundraiser in partnership with Tanana Silk Madagascar! These unique, handcrafted ornaments are not just beautiful—they’re a way to support lemur habitat reforestation, local artisan and farmer employment, and biodiversity conservation in Madagascar.

🐾 What’s Coming:
Unique Ornaments: Crafted by Malagasy artisans using sustainably harvested silk cocoons, these ornaments depict the iconic indri and diademed sifaka lemur species.

Make an Impact: Each ornament will be available for $30, with proceeds directly supporting:
☑️$10 for reforesting the wildlife corridor between Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and Analamazoatra Special Reserve.
☑️$10 to support Ta'na'na's artisans, farmers, and biodiversity conservation programs.
☑️$10 to support local boutiques.

🌱By participating in this fundraiser, you’ll be helping to rebuild habitats for at-risk species and supporting local livelihoods.

🌟Calling All Businesses in Madagascar🌟
If you’re a business in Madagascar and would like to participate by selling these beautiful lemur art ornaments, we’d love to hear from you! This is a fantastic opportunity to support a great cause while offering your customers something truly special.
📬 Contact Us:
https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/ourteam

Stay tuned for more details on the official launch! In the meantime, here’s a sneak peek at the ornaments that will be available soon.

📢 New Role Announcement!

We are excited to announce that Jhoanny Rasojivola has taken on the role of Field Director & Conservation Project Manager! 🌿🐒

Jhoanny brings extensive field research experience and a deep passion for lemur conservation. His remarkable work in Madagascar's national parks and his talent in wildlife videography will be invaluable to our mission.

Please join us in congratulating Jhoanny on his new TDARFAC role! 🎉

📧 [email protected]

📢 Welcome to the Team!

We're thrilled to announce that Justorien "Donovan" Rambeloniaina, DVM, has joined us as the Head Veterinarian for Lemur Conservation! 🐒

With his extensive experience in veterinary science and a deep commitment to conservation, Dr. Rambeloniaina is a pivotal addition to our mission. His expertise will significantly enhance our efforts to protect and preserve lemur populations.

We are excited about the positive impact he will bring to our new projects and the broader conservation community. 🌿

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Rambeloniaina to TDARFAC!

📧 [email protected]

🚀 Top Tips for Acing Your Essay Research & Writing! 🚀

Hey everyone! Nervous about essay writing this upcoming semester? Here are some do's and don'ts to help you nail your next assignment. Check them out! 👇

✅ Do's:
1. Read the Abstract Multiple Times 📄
* Grasp the major findings and conclusions by reading the abstract 2-3 times.
2. Focus on Key Sections 🔍
* Dive into the Introduction for background and the Discussion for the significance of results.
3. Take Notes 📝
* Note key evidence as you read through the Discussion.
4. Reinforce the Main Point 📌
* Re-read the abstract to keep the main points fresh in your mind.
5. Build a Specific Argument 🛠️
* Root your argument in the evidence presented by the authors.
6. Select Relevant Evidence 🎯
* Choose evidence that best supports your argument without getting lost in details.
7. Create an Outline 🗂️
* Plan your essay with a detailed outline before you start writing.
8. Read Critically 🧐
* Practice reading carefully and critically. It gets easier with time!
9. Show Originality 🌟
* Bring a creative, original perspective to your topic. Critically examine your ideas.
10. Take a Position 🗣️
* Clearly state and defend your position with scientific evidence.
11. Revise Thoroughly 🔄
* Revise your work multiple times. Never submit your first draft!
12. Use Adequate Sources 📚
* Use more than the required number of relevant sources for a richer essay.
13. Minimize Jargon 🗣️
* Use clear, precise language. Avoid unnecessary academic jargon.
14. Cut Unnecessary Content ✂️
* Proofread and shorten your essay if needed. Focus on conciseness and substance.

🚫 Don'ts:
1. Don't Focus Excessively on Complex Math ➗
* Skip the complex math in Methods and Results unless absolutely necessary.
2. Don't Skip Important Sections ⏩
* Don’t overlook the Introduction or Discussion sections—they're crucial!
3. Don't Ignore Note-Taking 🖊️
* Missing out on note-taking means missing key evidence for your argument.
4. Don't Rely Solely on Memory 🧠
* Re-read the abstract to reinforce the main points.
5. Don't Use Irrelevant Evidence ❌
* Stick to evidence that directly supports your argument.
6. Don't Write Without an Outline 🚫✏️
* Writing without an outline can lead to a messy essay.
7. Don't Read Uncritically 🛑
* Critically evaluate information instead of taking it at face value.
8. Don't Repeat Standard Perceptions 🔄
* Develop your own perspective rather than repeating common ideas.
9. Don't Just Repeat Information ❗
* Take a clear stand and defend it rather than just summarizing existing views.
10. Don't Submit First Drafts 📝🚫
* Always revise before submitting. First drafts are just the beginning.
11. Don't Add Sources Just to Increase Number 📑
* Use sources relevant to your topic. Quality over quantity!
12. Don't Overuse Jargon 🚫💬
* Keep your language clear and simple. Avoid overcomplicating with jargon.
13. Don't Increase Length Unnecessarily ⏳
* Focus on conciseness and substance. Padding won't earn you extra points.

Happy writing, everyone! You've got this! 💪📝✨

Aza adinoina ny famelabelarana androany alarobia, fa mbola misy hafa koa @ zoma izao.

🐾 A Heartfelt Thank You to The Mad Dog Initiative and the Amazing Vet Team 🐾

We are overjoyed to welcome our new family member, Alika, who has traveled all the way from Madagascar to Illinois! 🌍✈️🏡

This incredible journey would not have been possible without the tireless efforts and generous hearts of the Mad Dog Initiative and the dedicated veterinary team. Your hard work and compassion have given Alika a chance at a new life, and for that, we will always be grateful. 💖

Thank you for making such an amazing difference in Alika's life and ours. We are looking forward to many happy years with our new furry friend!

🌿📰 Check out our latest newsletter! 📰🌿

We're thrilled to share exciting updates, upcoming events, and stories from the field in our newest edition. Dive into the latest conservation efforts, learn about our projects, and see how you can get involved.

Read the full newsletter here: https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/campaigns/view-campaign/3OAkzgQeUdgI2M83njr8axFMW8VVDrHW9eM9FAcVACOy8_QcZd1aXBpVq0bYczoSn9T-goMUuDdKBimCqSWkHFnAVZxu7Tdz

TDARFAC Summer 2024 Newsletter June 2024 marked one year since TDARFAC officially launched in Madagascar. We are grateful to our partners, collaborators, and supporters for helping make the work we do possible!

We are delighted to share that Abby Ross and PhD Candidate Mauricette Marie Rajaobelina are featured in a new podcast episode by AWIS Chicago!🎙️

They dive into the importance of women in science and the powerful mentor-mentee relationship that drives success and innovation. 💪👩🏾‍🔬🧬

🔗https://www.awis-chicago.org/new-innovators-and-motivators-podcast

Kim Valenta & Abigail Ross: Growing the Green Corridor from Andasibe-Mantadia to Analamazoatra

🌿 Thank You for Joining Us! 📝

A huge thank you to everyone who attended our seminar at the Madagascar Biodiversity Center! It was an honor to present alongside my colleague and friend, Dr. Kim Valenta, on “Bridging Biodiversity: Growing the Green Corridor from Andasibe-Mantadia to Analamazoatra” to share our current projects and introduce the big idea of creating the “Lemur Super Highway” for the future!

It was awesome to see so many Malagasy students there! Your support and engagement were truly inspiring. Together, we’re making strides towards a greener, more biodiverse future.

Special thanks to the Madagascar Biodiversity Center for hosting us and Dr. Tanjona’s fantastic tour, showcasing the incredible work MBC is doing to address food security with insects. 🐛🌾

👉@ Talata indray ny famelabelarana manaraka

Reforestation Season 2 Update! 📈✨

Our reforestation corridor project connecting Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and Analamazoatra Special Reserve is in full swing! Today we revised our tree tagging protocol, revisited our seedling mortality methodology, visited the first 30 hectares replanted last year, and started planting the next 30 hectares.

We’re planting many pioneer species and lemur food trees, Abrahamia ditimena, an important food resource for lemurs. 🌳🐒
The Mad Dog Initiative
Ecovision Village
Mitsinjo

It is wonderful to see the youth enjoying nature. Today, the second group of students from the primary school of Ambohidroa II Antananarivo started to understand the importance of protecting and conserving the by driving them directly to mother nature to see , and many more in the . 🌳🌏
They will continue their journey to experience more. Stay tuned and follow us.
The Mad Dog Initiative Tany Ketsa Mitsinjo Ecovision Village Abby Ross Kim Valenta Rindra Rakotoarivony

🌿✨ An unforgettable adventure for the students from Ambohidroa Public Primary School in Antananarivo! TDARFAC took a student group on an overnight field trip to Andasibe!

In Mitsinjo Forest, the students saw lemurs in the wild for the first time! 🐒🌳 At Ecovision Village, the students learned about our reforestation corridor project, got hands-on with seedling maintenance, and discovered sustainable practices like beekeeping. 🐝🌸

Experiencing lemurs and wildlife firsthand is so important for Malagasy youth as it fosters a deep connection to their natural heritage and inspires future conservation efforts. 🌱💚

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible partners The Mad Dog Initiative, Tany Ketsa, Ecovision Village, & Mitsinjo for making this possible. Together, we are nurturing a love for nature and conservation in the next generation! 🌍🤝

Importance of eco-tourism in Madagascar In Madagascar, ecotourism can be a win-win-win for tourists, Malagasy people, and Madagascar’s lemurs and other wildlife. When done well, ecotourism helps protect natural environments by both supporting conservation and providing financial benefits to local people and their communities.

🎧 I had the honor of being featured on the All Creatures Podcast! 🦁🌿

In this episode, we discuss:
🌍 My background and journey in conservation.
🐒 The challenges faced in conservation work, especially in Madagascar.
🍃 Research on primate behavior.
🚫 Issues like habitat loss, wildlife trafficking, and climate change.
👩🏽‍🔬 The importance of mentoring young Malagasy scientists.
💪 Advice for young conservationists and an overview of TDARFAC's work.

🔗 Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-creatures-podcast/id1311040782?i=1000657140661

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0dcBq6utoegJAkBAxzg8uv?si=qIYmttXOSHa6lOV1QGyJQw

📢 Check out our latest post featuring the profiles of the 2024 Award Program recipients. 🏆🌟 Don't miss this opportunity to learn about their amazing work and the impact they are making in conservation.

Read the full post here: https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/blog/2024-award-program-recipient-profiles

📢 New Blog Alert! 🌱

Meet the 2024 Grant Program recipients! We're so proud to share the amazing work these conservation champions are doing. From protecting endangered species to restoring critical habitats, their projects are truly inspiring.

Read their stories and learn more about their incredible contributions: https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/blog/2024-grant-program-recipient-profiles

🌍✨ New Blog Post Alert! ✨🌍

We're excited to share our latest blog post: "Conservation Holiday: International Chameleon Day"! Dive into the fascinating world of chameleons and learn how these incredible creatures play a vital role in our ecosystem. 🦎🌿

Discover how conservation efforts are making a difference and what you can do to help protect these amazing reptiles. Join us in celebrating International Chameleon Day every year by spreading awareness and taking action! 🌍💚

🔗 Read the full blog post here: https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/blog/conservation-holiday-international-chameleon-day