Island species at risk

Regrettably, the golden mantella frog is not unique in having endangered species status in Madagascar (your report, 1 January).

The island of Madagascar was fortunate in becoming separated from the main land mass of Africa before the higher primates, and especially man, evolved.

Many of the animals are unique to the island and all are threatened by the activities of the most recent arrival on Madagascar – man, who is busy destroying habitats at a prodigious rate.

Also, I was sad to see that the article made no reference to the excellent work being done by Durrell Wildlife, which is based in Jersey, to conserve habitats and species, especially among the lemur populations.

DAVID R MOLE
Springbank
Kennoway, Fife