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IMPACT PROMISE

Our Partners are carefully selected due to their high conservation impact

Appeal Snapshot

Partner:

Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF)

Location:

Vacoas, Mauritius

Category:
  • Endangered Species
  • Land Protection
  • Ecosystem Restoration
Urgent Appeals:

Save Mauritius' Chamarel Forest 

Date Founded:

1984

Website:

mauritian-wildlife.org

Partner Qualifications:

  • IUCN Member
    A distinguished Member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. IUCN Members are each vetted and voted on based on an independent, rigorous assessment and external references. Learn More
  • Legally Constituted
    This organization is formally constituted and is a legally recognized non-profit in its country of origin.
  • Effective Impact
    We recognize this Partner for their tremendous efforts to make a difference for wildlife and local communities, as well as welcome technical support from Conservation Allies to improve and scale up their impact.

Mauritian Wildlife Foundation

The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) is dedicated to conserving the island's unique biodiversity through over 20 active programs across Mauritius and Rodrigues. With a focus on species and ecosystem recovery, MWF manages critical conservation efforts such as the restoration of endangered bird populations like the Mauritius Kestrel, Pink Pigeon, and Echo Parakeet, and expanding the range of native reptiles through translocations. The foundation also works on restoring natural habitats, using an ecosystem recovery approach to improve conditions for endemic species.

In addition to its fieldwork, MWF runs educational programs in Mauritius and Rodrigues, including community engagement and eco-tourism initiatives. The foundation partners with local and international organizations, researchers, and environmentalists to drive informed, collaborative conservation efforts and ensure the long-term sustainability of Mauritius’s fragile ecosystems.

Their Challenges

Mauritius and Rodrigues face significant ecological challenges despite their unique biodiversity. With 57% of plant species threatened, they rank third globally for the highest percentage of threatened flora. Habitat loss and the introduction of invasive species have been major contributors to the decline of native species since the island’s colonization. Over 100 species have already gone extinct, including the Dodo, a symbol of human-induced extinction.

Currently, deforestation remains a primary concern, driven by agricultural expansion, logging, and urban development, resulting in the loss of vital habitats. Invasive species continue to threaten native plants and wildlife, with efforts to address their impact being slow and costly. Soil degradation, exacerbated by monoculture farming and chemical use, also hinders recovery. Furthermore, climate change intensifies these challenges, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and altered rainfall patterns jeopardizing the future of the islands’ ecosystems.

Their Approach

To address ecological challenges, the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation runs field conservation programs, promotes sustainable practices, and engages communities through education and outreach. Their Conservation Biologists protect endemic bird species through predator control, captive breeding, and habitat restoration. We also focus on propagating endangered plants and carry out species translocations and ecosystem reconstruction.

Through workshops and training, we educate individuals and organizations on conservation, covering topics like invasive species, human-wildlife conflict, and sustainable land use. Our outreach includes community clean-ups, tree planting, and sustainability events, raising awareness and fostering involvement. We also use social media to share success stories and partner with schools, businesses, and government agencies to amplify our impact and encourage collective action for sustainability.

Why They Need Your Help

By contributing, you’re helping to create a sustainable future where natural habitats thrive, wildlife is protected, and communities actively engage in conservation. Every dollar makes a lasting impact on biodiversity in Mauritius and Rodrigues.

1. Habitat Restoration: Funds support reforestation and landscape rehabilitation, restoring habitats for wildlife and improving ecosystem health.

2. Wildlife Protection: Donations enable wildlife monitoring, providing essential tools, training, and support for field biologists to protect endangered species.

3. Community Engagement: Contributions empower local communities through education, conservation projects, and sustainable development initiatives that benefit both people and the environment.

4. Research and Advocacy: Donations fund vital research and advocacy efforts to shape policies and develop effective conservation strategies.

Your support is essential in advancing our conservation work and safeguarding vital ecosystems.