In 1986, primatologist Patricia Chapple Wright embarked on a remarkable journey to the rainforests of Madagascar with a mission that seemed almost impossible: to find the greater bamboo lemur, a species unseen by scientists in the wild for thirty years. Her quest not only proved successful, discovering that the species still thrived, but also led to the identification of a new species, the golden bamboo lemur. This pivotal discovery sparked a lifelong passion for Madagascar's unique wildlife and ecosystems, culminating in the establishment of Ranomafana National Park (RNP) in 1991 and the creation of Centre ValBio (CVB) in 2003.
Under Dr. Wright's leadership, CVB has been a beacon for conservation and research, dedicated to protecting Madagascar's critically endangered plants and animals while also supporting the local communities. The centre's work has drawn global attention, inspiring many to join the cause of conservation.
In October 2023, The SOSA’s Blake Moynes and Kendall Long (host of the Little Curiosities podcast) were welcomed by CVB.
During their visit, Blake and Kendall engaged in a variety of activities that highlighted the importance of conservation efforts in Madagascar. They shared their journey on social media, offering their followers a glimpse into their experiences. Highlights included a guided hike through Ranomafana National Park with Dr. Patricia Wright, where they learned about the history and biodiversity of the area.
They also worked with CVB's research technicians, setting up traps to collect morphometric data on mouse lemurs, and explored the educational exhibits at the Ranomafana Nature Center. Their efforts help bring the beauty and urgency of conserving Ranomafana's ecosystems to a global audience, inspiring many to join in the cause of protecting these incredible species.
To learn more about primatologist Patricia Chapple Wright and Centre ValBio head to their page within Stony Brook University’s website.
