Arboretum d’Antosaky is an excellent facility that is
dedicated to the preservation of Madagascar’s Dry Forest plant species. More
than 90% of the species maintained here are endemic to this area. The bungalows
are clean and well-kept with mosquito nets in good condition. The entire
facility is predicated on sustainability with Solar power, water reuse and
minimalist practices.
A phalanx of Geckos guard the walls of the bungalow at night,
I feel well protected from any nasty night crawling insects J. I rise every morning
at 5:00 am to walk the property before the heat of the day becomes oppressive.
It takes approximately an hour to walk the trails longer when encountering some
of the local fauna highlights. I find that taking two circuits in the morning
then two later afternoon is sufficient and always rewarding.
It is absolutely surreal to realize that most of the species
one encounters here both of flora and fauna are not found anywhere else in the
world. This surrealism is only magnified when you begin to observe the species
diversity found within the reserve.
On my first day here I had the enjoyable experience of listening to the group of biologists with which I had traveled to Toliara. This group was made up of some of the most knowledgeable Madagascar plant ecologists in the world. One of this individuals excitement was palpable as he walked the grounds observing the incredible range of species. This was a Mada plant biology 101 course worth the price of admission. I was lucky to be a fly on the wall for this one to be sure. Very cool!!
