Threatened species of Geochelone yniphora

The coastal areas of Madagascar, south of Tulear to south of Lake Tsimanampetsotsa and west of Ft. Dauphin to Faux Caphave, had until recently contained viable populations of these tortoises. However, expeditions in 1999 revealed these areas now devoid of tortoises indicating these areas as the source of tortoises sold in tourist markets.

Madagascar has a history of not protecting its endangered wildlife.