Nosy Mangabe
| Nosy Mangabe Reserve | |
|---|---|
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IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area) | |
  Location of Nosy Mangabe Reserve | |
| Location | North-east Madagascar |
| Nearest city | Maroantsetra |
| Coordinates | 15°30′S 49°46′E / 15.500°S 49.767°ECoordinates: 15°30′S 49°46′E / 15.500°S 49.767°E |
| Area | 5.2 km² |
| Established | 1965 |
| Visitors | approx. 3000 (in 2005) |
| Governing body | Madagascar National Parks Association (ANGAP) in partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society |
Nosy Mangabe is a small island reserve located in Antongil Bay about 2 km offshore from the town of Maroantsetra in eastern Madagascar. 520ha in size, it is accessible by small boat and is part of the larger Masoala National Park complex. It is a tropical rainforest preserve and sanctuary for the endangered aye-aye. It lies close enough to town for a day trip, although an overnight stay is recommended for seeing the nocturnal aye-aye. The island has a rich history of trading and piracy; on the west side of the island are rock carvings by Dutch sailors from the 16th century. British science fiction writer Douglas Adams visited the island searching for the aye-aye in one of his lesser known books, Last Chance to See. There are no permanent settlements on the island; a campsite with bathroom and kitchen facilities serves as a base camp for biologists, researchers and eco-tourists.
Heather E. Heying has written a literary book on her research on the island named 'Antipode: Seasons with the Extraordinary Wildlife and Culture of Madagascar'
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