The Dodo’s Legacy, Celebrating 40 Years of Conservation in Mauritius

The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) recently unveiled its highly anticipated book, The Dodo’s Legacy – The Story of Conservation in Mauritius, at the Institut Français de Maurice (IFM) in Rose Hill on Friday, December 13. Authored by Rodney Phillips, this publication is a highlight of the MWF’s 40th-anniversary celebrations and richly illustrates the remarkable conservation efforts undertaken in Mauritius and Rodrigues.

The launch event attracted a distinguished audience, including the Minister of Environment, Waste Management, and Climate Change, Rajesh Bhagwan, and Junior Minister Joanna Bérenger.

The event was also supported by sponsors such as CIM Finance, Currimjee Group, MCB Group, and Scott, as well as local business representatives, journalists, and MWF members.

Vikash Tatayah, the MWF’s Conservation Director, served as the master of ceremonies.

During the evening, Rodney Phillips discussed his motivations for writing the book, while Carl Jones, the MWF’s Scientific Director, emphasized the critical importance of preserving Mauritius’s unique biodiversity.

Tim Taylor, the MWF’s President, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and contributors.

Minister Bhagwan commended the MWF for four decades of unwavering dedication to protecting Mauritius’s natural heritage and encouraged the organization’s ongoing efforts.

Four Decades of Exemplary Conservation

Since its founding in 1984, the MWF has emerged as a key player in conservation efforts in Mauritius.

The book is highlighting the remarkable journey of the MWF, showcasing significant successes in the protection of iconic species such as the Mauritius Kestrel, Pink Pigeon, Echo Parakeet, Rodrigues Fruit Bat, and Rodrigues Warbler.

It also details critical habitat restoration projects in areas such as Île aux Aigrettes, Île Ronde, the Black River Gorges, and Grande Montagne in Rodrigues.

By supporting the publication, readers not only engage with an inspiring narrative but also contribute to the preservation of the remaining endemic species on Mauritius and Rodrigues.

The book is available at the MWF headquarters in Vacoas, on Île aux Aigrettes, at various markets where the MWF has stands, and in select bookstores.

The Dodo’s Legacy: A Lesson for the Future

Following the arrival of the Dutch in 1598, Mauritius faced massive deforestation, leading to the extinction of several endemic species.

The most famous loss was that of the dodo, which has become a symbol of extinction.

Over the next four centuries, the island’s ecosystems suffered severe degradation due to the introduction of invasive species, habitat destruction, and urbanization.

It was not until the early 20th century that concerns about these pressing issues began to emerge.

In 1984, a small group of concerned citizens and international naturalists founded an NGO focused on the conservation of endangered species and the restoration of damaged ecosystems.

Today, thanks to their dedicated efforts, Mauritius is recognized as a global leader in conservation, having rescued more endemic species than any other country.

The story told in The Dodo’s Legacy – The Story of Conservation in Mauritius serves as a source of inspiration and national pride, reminding us that, through determination and collaboration, it is possible to restore and protect our natural heritage for future generations.

Source: l’Express