The greater bamboo lemur

Profile

Class, order and family :

Mammalia, primates, lemuridae

Lifespan :

Up to 17 years in captivity

Height & weight :

from 85 to 90 cm / 2.2 to 2.5 kg

Gestation :

4.5 - 5 months

Natural habitat :

giant bamboo

Diet :

bamboo leaves, heart and fruit

Native region :

Madagascar

Statut UICN :

Critically Endangered (CR)

Lifestyle

This tree-dwelling species grows up in polygamous groups of 60 individuals according to a “fusion-fission” social system which still mystifies ethologists. They are cathemeral animals, active both at night and during the day. The great bamboo lemurs have seen 90% of their original forest disappear thanks to intensive deforestation and the expansion of mining. They can still be found in the rainforests of the eastern part of the island and the rural commune of Tsaratanana.

Distinctive features

This highly agile animal has hind legs that are longer than its front legs, enabling it to leap easily from branch to branch. Its long tail acts as a pendulum and helps it to keep its balance.