MDG-01 · Eastern Montane Rainforest
Ranomafana Rainforest Field School
Track twelve species of lemur through the mist-laden canopy of Madagascar's premier research forest.
Research Brief
Based at a long-term research station beside Ranomafana National Park, this field school immerses students in the methods of primate monitoring. Working alongside resident scientists, participants learn behavioural sampling, transect survey design, and the phenology of the eastern rainforest, following the established station protocols that have underpinned decades of monitoring at this site. All observation is non-invasive and conducted under current park research authorisation.
Field Activities
- Dawn lemur behavioural observation with resident primatologists
- Nocturnal transects for mouse lemurs and chameleons
- Herpetological & botanical inventory methods
- Community conservation workshop in a highland village
- Independent research project with data write-up
Expedition Log · Itinerary
Arrival & Orientation
Fly into Antananarivo, overland transfer to the highlands. Station induction and field-safety certification.
Canopy Methods
Behavioural sampling protocols, GPS transect mapping, and species identification training.
Field Deployment
Split into research teams tracking golden bamboo lemur and Milne-Edwards' sifaka across established grids.
Independent Project
Design and run a focused study, from acoustic sampling to plant-primate interaction.
Analysis & Departure
Data analysis, presentations to station staff, and return transfer.
Key Study Species
Prolemur simus
Greater Bamboo Lemur
Propithecus edwardsi
Milne-Edwards' Sifaka
Microcebus rufus
Brown Mouse Lemur