Hanitriniaina Raharinirina
Student Researcher—La Mananara Site
Hanitra is an early career conservationist and wildlife researcher with a focus on lemur behavior, habitat use, and conservation in Madagascar. Her research interests primarily revolve around understanding the ecological dynamics and behavioral ecology of lemur species, especially in anthropogenic habitats. Although Hanitra has worked on a variety of species across different taxonomic groups, including small mammals in Makira Natural Park, lemurs have always been one of her core interests.
For her Master’s thesis, Hanitra studied the distribution and habitat use of eastern woolly lemur in the fragmented forests of the Ambohidray New Protected Area in central-eastern Madagascar. Her research contributed valuable insight into how this species adapts to habitat fragmentation, and through the Coding for Conservation mentorship program, she further developed the necessary skills to analyze ecological data and write scientific articles. She even presented her findings at the African Primatological Society’s Congress in South Africa in 2024, where her poster was awarded Best Poster. She has also gained extensive field research experience assisting a University of Toronto PhD study on the behavioral ecology of Coquerel’s sifaka in the dry forests of Mariarano.
Hanitra received a BS in Organisms and Ecosystem Biology in 2019, and an MSc in Animal Conservation Biology in 2022 from the University of Antananarivo.
Q&A with Hanitra
What draws you to a career in wildlife conservation?
I’ve always wanted to do something significant. I truly love my country, and wildlife is what makes Madagascar unique. My goal is to help preserve that uniqueness for future generations.
What is one of the coolest experiences you’ve had in your work?
Seeing the “Big Five” during my trip to South Africa for the African Primatological Society Congress in 2024. It was incredible to witness such majestic animals.
Who or what inspires you?
Madagascar’s wildlife, the lemurs, the small mammals, the chameleons… along with the local communities who are dedicated to protecting biodiversity, they all inspire me. Their resilience in the face of challenges motivates me to keep working towards conservation and positive changes.
What book has influenced you or made a strong impression?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho influenced me deeply. I know, it’s not about primates, wildlife, or conservation, rather, it’s about the journey of life. I found myself relating to the shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a treasure. Despite many obstacles, he perseveres, never giving up hope. I want to have that same hope for Madagascar’s biodiversity, even if, realistically, the challenges seem insurmountable.
What is your favorite movie?
I don’t have a favorite movie, but my favorite TV show is Friends. It makes me happy and always brings a smile to my face.
What is you favorite food?
I’m a big fan of seafood, I can’t get enough of shrimp, crab, and calamari.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?
Barcelona, Spain. My work keeps me immersed in nature which I love and can’t get enough of, but I sometimes crave a change of scenery—a fancy and luxurious city. Also, since my father is a big fan of Barcelona’s football team, I’d love to visit the city with him one day.
Besides lemurs, what is one of your favorite animals, and why?
Spiders. Many people are afraid of them or hate them, but the idea of “Love the Unloved” has always resonated with me. I find spiders fascinating, cute, and just really cool creatures!
Why do you care about Madagascar and its wildlife?
It’s our heritage. Like the pyramids are for Egypt, or the Eiffel Tower is for France, wildlife is for Madagascar. Wildlife is a symbol of Madagascar’s identity and what makes it unique, and is something worth protecting for future generations.