Endangered native species Madagascar's traditional woodworking sector is less dangerous to its unique ecosystem than fierce deforestation, particularly with regards to agriculture. A.Lorgnier ©
Madagascar could be described as some sort of Noah's ark. Thousands of plants, 32 lemur species, 260 reptile species ranging from chameleons to crocodiles, 220 bird species, of which half are endemic (found only in that area of the world), and 7 endemic carnivorous species have been discovered here. Unfortunately, this heritage is gradually disappearing. The primary forests that covered 30% of the island in 1950 only cover 12% today; they have either been cut down or burnt at a rate of 740,000 acres per year. In the next ten years, all that might be left are a few private and national parks. Madagascar is gradually digging the grave of its natural assets, leading The WWF (World Wildlife Foundation) and other organisations to lend a helping hand.