CASE STUDY 9

The Malagasy case study focuses on the role of humid forest degradation and restoration on zoonotic disease risk. Forest degradation and loss are widespread in Madagascar; however, the government, NGOs, and private citizens are also working to restore forested areas to support the unique endemic biodiversity of this country. We will sample small mammal communities, ectoparasite vectors, and their environment across native forest, degraded or cleared areas, and areas in the process of being restored. We will also explore the role of owls and other raptors in community dynamics and disease risk.