Ring‑tailed Lemur
Lemur catta
Also known as: Maki
The Ring‑tailed Lemur (Lemur catta) is a charismatic primate endemic to Madagascar, instantly recognisable by its long black‑and‑white ringed tail. Highly social and diurnal, they live in large troops and spend more time on the ground than most other lemur species. They communicate using scent marking and vocalisations and are famous for their sun‑bathing posture, sitting upright to warm their bodies.
Ring‑tailed Lemur Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ring‑tailed Lemur
Male Ring‑tailed Lemurs take part in 'stink fights' by rubbing scent from glands on their wrists and shoulders onto their tails, then waving those scented tails at rivals. The display is used during social disputes and the breeding season, allowing males to compete through scent and display before a fight becomes physical.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur can be found in Madagascar and is most often associated with Dry forests, scrub, and gallery forests.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur feeds on Fruits, leaves, flowers, insects and is considered a omnivore.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur is currently listed as Endangered, with a decreasing population trend. Main threats include Habitat loss, Hunting, Pet trade.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur is usually troops (female-dominated).
The Ring‑tailed Lemur is typically diurnal.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur is resident.
The main threats facing the Ring‑tailed Lemur include Habitat loss, Hunting, and Pet trade.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur population trend is currently decreasing.
Well-known places to look for the Ring‑tailed Lemur include Isalo National Park (Madagascar) and Berenty Reserve.
Natural predators of the Ring‑tailed Lemur include Fossa and Harrier hawks.
Iconic flagship species for Madagascan conservation efforts.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur is part of the Lemuridae family and a Primates order.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur weighs about 2.2 kg, stands around 40 cm tall, and reaches about 100 cm in length.
The Ring‑tailed Lemur can reach speeds of around 20 km/h.
