|
Mammal. Black and white ruffed lemurs are tree dwelling primates and the largest of all lemurs. They live in groups of two to five individuals. Unlike many other species, females are larger and dominant over males. While small in size with cat-like noses and whiskers or fox-like snouts, the lemurs' “bark” can be heard over a kilometer (3/4 mile) through the woods. They have up to a dozen different alarm calls that can specify where the danger lies and the type of predator approaching. Their lower front teeth are adapted to form a comb used for grooming, which helps form social bonds. |
| Scientific
Name |
Lifespan |
| Varecia variegata variegata |
19 years, 25 in captivity |
| Diet |
| Herbivore. Mostly fruit, leaves, nectar, flowers and seeds. |
| Predators and Threats |
| Boa constrictors, eagles and hawks, fossas (relatives of the mongoose) and humans. |
| Habitat |
| Eastern rainforests of Madagascar. |
