About Me

Welcome

TDARFAC Launch Party
Antananarivo, Madagascar

About Me

I am a primate behavioral ecologist and the Founder and Executive Director of The Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation (TDARFAC). I graduated with my B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin- Madison, M.A. in Biological Anthropology from Northern Illinois University, and Ph.D. in Evolutionary Anthropology from the University of Toronto, Canada. I have conducted fieldwork and participated in conservation research projects in Costa Rica, Bolivia, Equatorial Guinea, South Africa, and Madagascar. I enjoy wildlife photography, strength training, exploring new places, and boating on the Rock River.

📣 Attention all conservation students, professionals, and enthusiasts! 🌿 TDARFAC is excited to announce that its call for grant proposals and award nominations will be opening on December 31, 2023! 🗓️ This is a fantastic opportunity to secure funding for your innovative projects and gain recognition for your hard work in the field of applied conservation. Our foundation is dedicated to supporting research and initiatives that make a tangible difference in preserving our planet's biodiversity. 🗒️✔️Projects based on any non-human primates, their habitats, or any animal or plant species, which share and influence the same landscapes of the non-human primates and directly relate to their conservation, are eligible for funding. If you've been searching for a way to amplify the impact of your work, we encourage you to apply. Please note: Applications will close on January 31, 2024. We look forward to reviewing your proposals and nominations. Make sure to mark your calendars! 📅 To learn more about the application process and requirements, visit our webpage at https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/grantsandawards. 🖥️ 🔑 Remember, a Google account is required to submit your application or nomination. If you don't have one, now is the perfect time to set one up. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to contribute to the preservation and protection of our environment. 🌱🦜 Apply now and let your conservation dreams take flight! 🌿💚 #CallforProposals #GrantProposals #AwardNominations #ConservationMatters

🌍🐒 Celebrating World Lemur Day! 🌿🌺 We are excited to launch a special reel, showcasing World Lemur Day celebrations and students from the Mention Anthropobiologie et Développement Durable (ADD), University of Antananarivo. 🎥🦎 We invite students to contribute their own clips to help raise awareness about lemurs and the threats they face. 📸🌳 🌿🐒 3 Ways to Save Lemurs from Extinction! 🌍✨ 1️⃣ Protect their habitats: By preserving and restoring the forests where lemurs live, we can ensure they have a thriving environment to thrive in. Support organizations working on reforestation and sustainable land management practices. 🌳🌿 2️⃣ Combat illegal wildlife trade: Lemurs are often victims of illegal trafficking. Say no to purchasing or owning lemurs as pets and report any illegal trade activities to the authorities. Spread awareness about the consequences of wildlife trafficking. 🛡️🚫 3️⃣ Support local communities: Engage with local communities living near lemur habitats. Encourage sustainable livelihoods that value lemurs and their natural resources. Promote eco-tourism initiatives that provide alternative income sources for communities. 💙🤝 Let's work together to ensure a future where lemurs thrive in harmony with their ecosystems! 🌿🐒💚 #WorldLemurDay #ConservationMatters #LemursForever #StudentsForLemurs #EndangeredSpecies #SaveLemursFromExtinction #EndWildlifeTrade #SupportLocalCommunities

📷🌍 Yesterday, our amazing in-country director, @rindrarakotoarivony, discussed our work and conservation goals on World Lemur Day! 🐒🌿 We are so grateful for our team’s expertise and dedication to protecting lemurs and their habitats. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the students from the Mention Anthropobiologie et Développement Durable (ADD) at the University of Antananarivo for their invaluable help and support during the event. 🎓💚 Your passion and commitment to conservation inspire all of us and give us a reason for hope. Together, we will make a difference! 🌍💪 #WorldLemurDay #ConservationHeroes #ConservationAction #TogetherWeCan #UniversityOfAntananarivo

🌿 Today is the day! Join us in celebrating World Lemur Day in Maromizaha, Madagascar! 📍🇲🇬 We are thrilled to participate for the first time and be among the incredible organizations represented here, all working towards the common goal of lemur conservation. 🎉⭐ Meet the passionate students, researchers, conservationists, and experts who are dedicated to protecting these unique creatures and their habitats. 🙌🐾 @maddoginitiative From educational activities to engaging workshops, there's something for everyone to learn and enjoy. 📚✨ Don't miss out on this extraordinary celebration of World Lemur Day from wherever in the world you call home! Be part of the movement. 🗓️🌿 #WorldLemurDay #MaromizahaMadagascar #ConservationMatters #ProtectOurLemurs #PreservingBiodiversity

Miaraha aminay mankalaza ny andron'ny varika harenantsika. Ny ivon'ny fankalazana dia atao any amin'ny ala arovana Maromizaha Andasibe. #madagascar #conservation #biodiversity #education #tdarfac #partnership #management #team #onsite #communication #collaboration #wildlifeconservation #usa #community #reforestation #africa #lemur #environment #communitysupport #foundation #teamwork #effort #student

🌿🐒 Get ready to celebrate World Lemur Day on October 27th! 🎉 Did you know these fascinating creatures are found only in the wild on the island of Madagascar? Lemurs are truly one-of-a-kind animals, and today, we want to share some interesting facts about them that will blow your mind! 🌴✨ 1️⃣ Lemurs are considered the most endangered mammal group in the world. With over 100 species, they face numerous threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Let's raise awareness and support conservation efforts to protect these amazing animals! 💚🌍 2️⃣ Ever heard of a "lemur stink fight"? 😂 That's right! To establish dominance or attract mates, lemurs have a unique way of communicating. They rub scent glands on their wrists and then flick their smelly wrists at each other. Talk about an interesting way to say "hello"! 🤭👋 3️⃣ Lemurs have some extraordinary adaptations. For instance, their long tails help them maintain balance when leaping through trees. Some lemurs even have tails longer than their bodies! 🌳🐒 Imagine swinging through the forest with such grace and agility! 4️⃣ Did you know that lemurs are primates, just like monkeys and apes? However, lemurs are considered the most primitive primates, meaning they have retained more ancestral traits than other primates. They give us a glimpse into the past! 📚🔍 5️⃣ One lemur species that truly stands out is the Aye-aye. With its big eyes, bat-like ears, and long, skeletal fingers, it's known for its unique appearance. Fun fact: the Aye-aye taps on trees to find grubs and uses its specialized finger to scoop them out. Talk about resourcefulness! 🌳👀 This World Lemur Day, let's appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of these incredible animals. 🐾 Let's work together to protect their habitats and ensure their survival for generations to come. 💪💚 Spread the word and share your love for lemurs on this special day! 📸✨ #WorldLemurDay #LemurFacts #ConservationEfforts #ProtectWildlife

The TDARFAC team is contributing as biodiversity conservation actor. We help building capacity, amplify voice and work with the local community. #Follow us #madagascar #conservation #biodiversity #education #tdarfac #partnership #management #team #onsite #communication #collaboration #wildlifeconservation #usa #community #reforestation #africa #lemur #environment #communitysupport #foundation #teamwork #effort #student

🌟 An Awesome First Advisory Council Meeting! 🌍 Today marked a milestone for TDARFAC! 🌱🤝 Our inaugural Advisory Council meeting was a resounding success, bringing together experts from a variety of backgrounds committed to making a real difference in conservation. ✨ Key Highlights: ☑️ Discuss our current initiatives. ☑️ Establish best practices for reviewing 2024 grant proposals/award nominations. ☑️ Consider future action. Thank you to our Advisory Council for sharing expertise and dedication. 💚🌟 #TDARFAC #advisorycouncil #callforproposals #conservationleaders #sustainability #environmentalstewardship #togetherforchange

Ny Fondation Dr. Abigail Ross ho an'ny fiarovana ampiharina momba ny tontolo iainana dia nanolo-tena hiaro ny tontolo iainana miaraka amin'ny vondrom-piarahamonina eny ifotony. Amin’ity taona ity dia hankalazaina ao amin’ny faritra arovana #Maromizaha any amin’ny ilany atsinanan’i Madagasikara ny fetim-pirenena. Ny #tdarfac miaraka amin'ny The Mad Dog Initiative, ny GERP Madagascar, ny Lemur Love, ny #ministry ny tontolo iainana sy ny harena lovain-jafy ary ny #fikambanana maromaro dia hiara-hiasa sy hankalaza ny andro maneran-tany ho an'ny varika na gidro ny faha 27 Oktobra 2023 ho avy izao. Miaraha aminay amin'ny fankalazana mba hanamafisana ny feon'ireo #varika harenantsika ary ndeha homentsika azy ireo ny tena lanjany. Tsy biby fiompy ny gidro. #madagascar #conservation #biodiversity #education #tdarfac #partnership #management #team #onsite #communication #colaboration #wildlifeconservation #usa #community #reborestation #africa #lemur #environment #communitysupport #foundation #teamwork #effort #student

Tree planting is progressing in the area that @ecovisionvillage is responsible for in Andasibe, #Madagascar. The first phase will cover an area of 30 hectares and is located between the forests of the Mantadia and Analamazaotra protected areas. More than 14,400 seedlings have been planted and are being monitored. The goal is to reconnect the corridor and restore the habitat of the lemurs that live in this area. A Collaboration between the #Dr_Abigail_Ross_Foundation_For_Applied_Conservation, @maddoginitiative, Mitsinjo Association and Ecovision Village. Join us in protecting the lemurs and the environment. We will soon celebrate the #world #lemur #day and we hope that everyone will work together to protect these Malagasy treasures. #The_Dr_Abigail_Ross_Foundation_For_Applied_Conservation #TDARFAC #Unity #Support #Conservation #Development #Lemur #Environment #Biodiversity #Success #Encouragement #Congratulate

🌍 Calling all nature enthusiasts and conservation champions! 🌿✨ 🦧🌳 We are dedicated to solving conservation problems and protecting non-human primates through innovative research and field initiatives. We believe in the power of collective action, and your generous donations can make a significant impact on our efforts to protect and restore our natural world. 🌎🌱 By contributing to TDARFAC, you are directly supporting groundbreaking research, community engagement programs, and practical conservation projects that address the urgent challenges our planet faces today. 🐾💚 Join us in safeguarding our planet's most vulnerable ecosystems and the incredible diversity of species that call them home. Every donation, big or small, brings us closer to a sustainable and thriving future. 🌺🐢 To donate, please visit our website: https://www.foundationforappliedconservation.org/donate #TDARFAC #ConservationMatters #DonateForNature

🌟 Good News Alert! 🏌️&zwj;♀️🏌️&zwj;♂️

We are excited to share that TDARFAC had the opportunity to co-sponsor a golf play day for Knockout Parkinson's Inc., a remarkable local community organization! 🎗️🎉

It was an honor to be part of this event

🌟 Good News Alert! 🏌️‍♀️🏌️‍♂️ We are excited to share that TDARFAC had the opportunity to co-sponsor a golf play day for Knockout Parkinson's Inc., a remarkable local community organization! 🎗️🎉 It was an honor to be part of this event, which not only brought together golf enthusiasts but also raised awareness and support for those battling Parkinson's disease. 💙 A huge shout-out to everyone who participated and showed their unwavering support. Your presence and contribution truly made a positive impact! 🙌 Let's continue to stand strong as a community, supporting local organizations like Knockout Parkinson's Inc. that are dedicated to improving lives and finding a cure. Together, we can knock out Parkinson's! 🥊 #CommunitySupport #KnockoutParkinsons #LocalOrganization #MakingADifference #ProudSponsor

🌿 Amazing News! 🌿 TDARFAC, @maddoginitiative, EcoVision, and Association Mitsinjo have joined forces and received a generous grant from @seacology_photos for our ambitious reforestation project. 🌳🤝 Our goal is to create a green corridor of 150 hectares (371 acres) connecting the magnificent Andasibe-Mantadia to the breathtaking Analamazaotra Special Reserve. 🌱🌳 This project will not only help restore the natural beauty of these areas but also protect the diverse wildlife including 12 lemur species that calls these protected areas home. With Seacology's support, we aim to plant thousands of trees (225,000 seedlings to be precise!), ensuring a sustainable future for both the environment and local Malagasy communities. 🌍🌱 By restoring this vital connection, we can enhance biodiversity, combat climate change, and create new opportunities for eco-tourism. We are incredibly grateful to Seacology for recognizing the significance of this project and for their commitment to preserving our planet's precious ecosystems. 🙏 Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of our environment and leave a green legacy for generations to come. 🌿💚 Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this exciting journey! 🌳🌍 #ReforestationProject #GreenCorridor #PreservingNature #SeacologyGrant #Madagascar #Rewild #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectedAreas

Empowering the next generation through education and collaboration, because together, we can create a sustainable world. 🌍✨ Join #tdarfac and the Department of Anthropobiology and Sustainable Development at the University of Antananarivo. 🎓🌿 Let's make a positive impact for communities, wildlife, and the environment! 🐾💚 #UnityInEducation #ConservationHeroes #EducationForAll #StudentFair

📚 We're happy to announce that our foundation has made a contribution to @ecovisionvillage! 🌿 TDARFAC donated 30 copies of the phenomenal field guide, "Protected Areas of Mantadia and Analamazaotra in Central Eastern Madagascar," authored by the renowned Steve Goodman and colleagues, published by Association Vahatra and Madagascar National Parks. 📖 This field guide is an absolute gem for all nature enthusiasts and conservationists who are passionate about the unique biodiversity found in Eastern Madagascar. We believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to environmental conservation. TDARFAC is proud to support EcoVision's mission to educate, inspire, and drive action towards a sustainable future. Here's to a greener, brighter future! 🌱💚 #ConservationMatters #EnvironmentalEducation #Donation #GreenFuture #ProtectMadagascar #FieldGuide #AssociationVahatra #TDARFAC #EcoVision #Biodiversity #MadagascarNationalParks

🎓📚 Taking on a new challenge as a student once again by auditing the Malagasy 101 class at Duke University! 🇲🇬 Being on the other side of the desk, absorbing knowledge and expanding my horizons, is an exciting experience! 🌱💫 Malagasy 101 offers a unique opportunity to dive into the fascinating culture, language, and traditions of Madagascar. 🌺🐢 I'm eager to immerse myself in this vibrant and diverse community, gaining a deeper understanding of Madagascar’s rich history and linguistic heritage. 🌿✨ I am grateful for this chance to engage with fellow students and passionate professors at Duke University. 🤝❤️ Stay tuned for updates, fun anecdotes, and maybe even a few tongue twisters! 🗣️😄 #DukeUniversity #Malagasy101 #NewBeginnings #LifeLongLearner #EducationJourney #CulturalExploration #PassionForLearning #NeverStopGrowing #AuditingClasses #InstaStudent

✨ Exploring the Enchanting Marojejy National Park with the Silky Sifaka 🌿 📍 Marojejy National Park The Silky Sifaka, also known as the “angel of the forest," is a rare and Critically Endangered lemur species found only in the northeastern rainforests of Madagascar. 🌿 Marojejy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts some of the most diverse rainforests on our planet. 🌳🍃 💫 Witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat was a humbling experience, reminding me of the importance of conservation efforts to protect their fragile ecosystem. By preserving places like Marojejy National Park, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to witness the magic and beauty of these unique species. Thank you to the @lemur.conservation.fdn for hosting us! 🌸 Have you ever had the pleasure of visiting Marojejy National Park or encountering the Silky Sifaka? Share your experiences and let's celebrate the beauty of Madagascar's wildlife together! 🦋💚 #SilkySifaka #MarojejyNationalPark #LemurConservationFoundation #MadagascarMagic #NatureEnthusiast #WildlifeConservation #EnchantingEncounters #UNESCOHeritage #ExploreTheUnknown #PreserveOurPlanet #Rewild

On site in Andasibe Madagascar, the #TDARFAC team is preparing the data processing from the reforestation project at Ecovision Village plantation site. We are doing a briefing at the The Mad Dog Initiative @maddoginitiative and Mitsinjo research station for up coming meetings and tasks. Follow us and stay tuned. Abby Ross Kim Valenta Rindra Rakotoarivony Ange Nandrianina Raharinirina Rado Rabe Rafaliarison Sitraka Andrianasolo #support #lemur #Conservation #biodiversity #student #effort #teamwork #foundation #communitysupport #environment #lemur #africa #reforestation #community #usa #wildlifeconservation #collaboration #communication #onsite #team #management #partnership #tdarfac #education #biodiversity #conservation #madagascar

Biodiversity Protection and community development are two of the diverse aims of The Abigail Ross Foundation For Applied #Conservation. This is why we #support and #congratulate the dear Professor Jonah Ratsimbazafy for receiving his honorary distinction Honoris Causa at the University of Antananarivo Madagascar. We were there. #environment #saveguard #development #lemur #biodiversity #encouragement #success

🌿 Honoring Troy Keip: Teeing Off for Science Scholarships! 🏌️&zwj;♀️🎓

Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the incredible legacy of Troy Keip, a true advocate for education and conservation. The Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conse

🌿 Honoring Troy Keip: Teeing Off for Science Scholarships! 🏌️‍♀️🎓 Today, we gather to remember and celebrate the incredible legacy of Troy Keip, a true advocate for education and conservation. The Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation proudly sponsors this Golf Play Day, supporting the mission of @thetroykeipfoundation to provide science scholarships for local Rockford area students. Troy Keip believed that education was the key to unlocking a brighter future, and his dedication to supporting students in their scientific pursuits lives on through the Troy Keip Foundation. By participating in this event, we not only pay tribute to Troy's unwavering commitment to education but also empower the next generation of scientific leaders. As we hit the greens today, let's remember that every swing can make a difference in the lives of deserving students. By supporting the Troy Keip Foundation, we are investing in the future of our community, fostering a love for science and conservation in young minds. Join us on this incredible journey to provide opportunities for Rockford area students to pursue their dreams in the sciences. Whether you're a golfer on the course or a supporter from afar, your involvement will transform lives and inspire a new generation of scientific explorers. Together, we can honor Troy's memory by creating a legacy of educational empowerment. Let's rally around these bright minds, providing them with the resources they need to make a lasting impact. #RememberingTroyKeip #EducationMatters #ScholarshipOpportunities #SupportingStudents #TroyKeipFoundation #ScientificLeaders #EmpoweringYouth #RockfordCommunity #GolfForACause

🌍🐒 Celebrating World Lemur Day! 🌿🌺

We are excited to launch a special reel, showcasing World Lemur Day celebrations and students from the Mention Anthropobiologie et Développement Durable (ADD), University of Antananarivo. 🎥🦎

We invite

The TDARFAC team is contributing as biodiversity conservation actor. We help building capacity, amplify voice and work with the local community. #Follow us #madagascar #conservation #biodiversity #education #tdarfac #partnership #management #team #o

Previously, my research focused on maternal-infant relationships in an Endangered lemur, Coquerel’s sifaka (Propithecus coquereli). These lemurs live in Ankarafantsika National Park located in northwestern Madagascar. I examined relationships between mothers and their infants by evaluating hormonal stress responses and nutritional food quality during lactation. Watch a short video on my research filmed by the American Society of Primatologists.

Significance of Research

The dynamic relationship between mothers and their infants determines the future reproductive success of many species. Understanding maternal-infant relationships is critical to the future conservation of all primate species. Yet, these relationships have been overlooked in evolutionary anthropology. Maternal care is the primary determinant of infant survival and fitness. In this way, mothers and their infants can be considered the fundamental unit of natural selection. Thus, species survival in the future unequivocally hinges on the relationships concerning mothers and their infants. Species will go extinct without the presence of healthy infants that eventually go on to reproduce themselves. This has tremendous conservation implications for long-term species survival and validates the importance of examining the many facets of maternal-infant relationships. This relationship is especially vital in endangered species that exhibit slow life histories, as do all Propithecus species. The goal of my research is to demonstrate how maternal energetics, infant care, and development are compellingly interrelated; while contributing to the understanding of evolutionary dynamics at work in seasonal environments. Learn more here.

Research Interests

Non-Human Primate Maternal-infant Relationships
Maternal Effects
Infant Growth & Development
Environmental & Reproductive Endocrinology
Nutritional Ecology
Life Histories

**Coquerel’s Sifaka Mom With Five-Month Old Infant in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar**

E.albifrons (female)_Nosy Mangabe_Abigail Ross copy.png

V.variegata_Lemur Island_Abigail Ross copy.png

"The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction."

~ Rachel Carson

**Silverback With Juvenile Mountain Gorilla in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda**

“Anthropology demands the open-mindedness with which one must look and listen, record in astonishment, and wonder that which one would not have been able to guess.”

— Margaret Mead