THE HUMAN DIMENSION OF REWILDING IN THE MASCARENE ISLANDS: MAKING SPACE FOR GIANT TORTOISES

The Mascarene Islands, and Réunion Island in particular, are facing major ecological challenges due to habitat degradation and the pervasive impact of invasive species. In response, researchers, conservation practitioners, and community volunteers have been exploring alternative restoration strategies. One such initiative emerged during the 2019 Island Biology Conference in Réunion, where an experimental rewilding protocol involving the introduction of Aldabra giant tortoises into tropical dry forest ecosystems was proposed. Through a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and participant observation, this study examines the complex socio-ecological dynamics surrounding this proposal. Using a conservation approach that challenges traditional methods, the paper highlights the contrasting views among stakeholders – ranging from enthusiasm to deep skepticism. While the reintroduction of giant tortoises holds promise for restoring ecological functions such as seed dispersal and herbivory, the project raises ecological, institutional, and cultural concerns, particularly within the densely inhabited and tightly regulated context of Réunion.