Lemurs of Madagascar

These quirky, wide-eyed primates are not only endemic to Madagascar, they are the world’s oldest living primates.

Scientists think the lemurs used ocean currents to flow, most likely on vegetation mats, from mainland Africa about 50-60 million years ago.  Once they arrived, lemurs evolved in isolation and adapted to Madagascar’s rainforest and spin desert landscape.  With no large predators, they diversified into over 100 species, ranging from tiny mouse lemurs to the indri.  Some extinct species were even gorilla-sized, weighing up to 220 lbs (100kg) unlike the indri, the largest species today weighing up to 20 lbs (9kg).  Interestingly, the extinct species (17 of them) lived alongside humans until as recently as 500 years ago.

Lemurs have an excellent sense of smell, improved night vision, and even a built-in grooming kit: a toothcomb and a grooming claw!  The toothcomb is quite fascinating.  It’s made up of a set of closely spaced, forward-leaning teeth at the front of the lower jaw that looks like a small comb.  Meanwhile, the grooming claw is found on the second toe of some lemur species.  It’s longer and thinner than the others, used to comb through their fur helping them remove dirt or parasites.  Since grooming is a social activity, they spend plenty of time grooming and caring for each other.

Many lemurs are fruit lovers, and as they munch their way through the canopy, they scatter seeds through their droppings, helping new plants grow.  Some species even help pollinate flowers!

Illustrated here are some of the wonderful lemur species, each with their own unique characteristics.

The Red Ruffed Lemur is the most visually striking with its vibrant red fur.  It is one of the few entirely frugivorous (fruit diet) lemurs.

Sifakas are famous for their agility and graceful sideways leaps (up to 30 ft/9m in one bound).  Their “dance-like” movements are a unique and efficient way to navigate Madagascar’s dense forests.

The Crowned Lemur lives in very small family groups of 5-6 individuals and is highly protective of their territory.

Now, this one is quite the monochromatic looker!  The Black and White Ruffed Lemur is the only primate that builds a nest for the young instead or carrying them while foraging.

Here’s another looker with a fabulous mix of white, gold and orange fur contrasting the verdant forest backdrop.  The Diademed Sifaka is Critically Endangered, with less than 10,000 left in the forests.

The Mongoose Lemur is perhaps the only species that has expanded beyond Madagascar, as it’s also been spotted on the nearby Comoros Islands.  They are known for their “beards”, reddish-brown on the males and white on the females.