Madagascar
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On Ancient Madagascar, Large Native Herbivores Paid the Price as Introduced Livestock Spread
New analyses of ancient cattle, sheep and goat bones suggest that the rapid spread of introduced livestock 1,200 years ago coincided with forest loss and population declines among large native herbivores.
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Ancient Eggshell Fragments Crack Giant Elephant Bird’s Life Secrets
In a region where skeletal fossils are poorly preserved, old eggshells are opening a window into the evolution, diet and distribution of Madagascar’s extinct birds.
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Cataloging the Past for Clues to Future Climate Adaptation
A Q&A with archaeologist and anthropologist Kristina Douglass, who studies the evolving relationships between people and the environment.
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In Madagascar, a Hurricane Simulation Transforms Into Real-life Disaster Response
Instead of leading a fictional disaster simulation as planned, Columbia researchers helped government agencies prepare for and respond to Tropical Cyclone Batsirai in real time.
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MPA Alum Focuses on Marine Conservation
Olivia Kemp, a 2013 alumna of the MPA in Environmental Science and Policy program, is using the skills she developed in the program to develop her career focusing on conservation, food security and sustainable development. Now with Blue Ventures, Kemp is working with local communities in Madagascar to create a focus on community-led marine conservation.

On Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 10am to 4pm, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House—our biggest, best science fun and discovery event of the year—will take place on our beautiful campus in Palisades, NY. Mark your calendar and join us for this free, family-friendly celebration of science! RSVP Today!
