Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland: A Trailblazer in Madagascar's Conservation Efforts Wins Prestigious Award

Renowned Conservationist Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland Receives Global Award



In a remarkable recognition of his contributions to wildlife conservation, Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland, an esteemed scientist and conservationist from Madagascar, has been awarded the prestigious Indianapolis Prize for 2025. The announcement was made by officials at the Indianapolis Zoo, marking a significant milestone in the field of biodiversity preservation.

Dr. René de Roland’s career has been marked by tireless dedication to researching and protecting Madagascar's unique ecosystems. He has discovered numerous new species, established four national protected areas, and developed community-oriented conservation programs that engage local populations. Since 2004, he has served as the National Director of The Peregrine Fund's Madagascar Program, leading a team of 48 local conservationists committed to safeguarding the country's wildlife and landscapes.

The Indianapolis Prize is awarded to individuals who have made significant strides in the advancement of species sustainability and represents the highest honor in the field of animal conservation, along with a $250,000 award. Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, praised Dr. René de Roland for his innovative and community-based conservation models that have successfully mitigated conflicts between humans and wildlife while preserving Madagascar’s extraordinary biodiversity.

René de Roland has played a pivotal role in the rediscovery of many species thought to be extinct, such as the Madagascar Pochard, which was believed to be extinct since the 1990s but was successfully rediscovered in a challenging expedition in 2006. He has also contributed to the discovery of two previously unidentified species of lemurs in northern Madagascar. His contributions were so impactful that scientists named a newly described wolf spider, Katableps lilyarisoni, in his honor in 2021.

Most recently, during a 2022 expedition, he and his team reunited with the elusive Black-breasted Puffbird, a small songbird that had evaded ornithologists for two decades. “I am honored to receive this prestigious award from the Indianapolis Zoo,” Dr. René de Roland shared. “My work is inspired by my pride in the biodiversity of my country and my love for its wonderful people.”

Under his leadership, the establishment of protected areas exceeding 1,500 square miles has transformed Madagascar’s conservation landscape, encompassing ecosystems such as rainforests, dry forests, wetlands, mangroves, and savannas. These efforts not only protect endangered endemic species but also improve the livelihoods of local communities that work alongside him in managing and utilizing resources sustainably.

Additionally, Dr. René de Roland has played an essential role in mentoring the next generation of Malagasy conservationists, impacting over 100 students at local universities in Madagascar. His students have achieved impressive educational milestones, including 90 master's degrees and 16 doctoral degrees.

“The Peregrine Fund is immensely proud of Lily, whose commitment to science, conservation, and community inspires us all,” stated Chris N. Parish, President and CEO of The Peregrine Fund. “We are thrilled that the Indianapolis Prize honors him for his research, mentorship, and decades of dedication to conservation.”

Dr. René de Roland earned both his Master’s and Doctorate degrees from the University of Antananarivo in Madagascar, and he first joined The Peregrine Fund in 1992 as a student studying the endangered raptors of Madagascar.

The Indianapolis Prize, which began in 2004, continues to highlight deserving conservationists globally who have achieved remarkable success in promoting the sustainability of animal species. The award ceremony celebrating Dr. René de Roland, alongside other finalists, will take place during the Indianapolis Prize Gala on September 27, 2025, at downtown Indianapolis, presented by Cummins Inc. To learn more about the Indianapolis Prize and its past winners, visit IndianapolisPrize.org.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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