Ring-Tailed Lemur
Named for the 13 alternating black and white bands on their long tails, ring-tailed lemurs are one of the most recognisable primates in Madagascar. Unlike most other lemurs, they spend a significant amount of time on the ground, moving on all fours across the forest floor. Their tails, which are longer than their bodies, help them with balance and serve as a way to signal other group members by being held upright like flags. They have distinctive facial markings, with white faces, dark eye patches, and a black nose. Their fur ranges from grey to rosy brown, with a white underside. Ring-tailed lemurs live in groups, known as troops, consisting of 15 to 20 individuals. Social interaction plays a key role in their daily lives, from grooming and scent-marking to sunbathing together in a “yoga” position to absorb warmth. Females are dominant over males, a rare trait among primates, and they remain in their birth groups for life, while males move between groups when they reach maturity.
Diet
Ring-tailed lemurs are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of food sources. Their diet includes fruit, leaves, bark, sap, flowers, and occasionally insects or small invertebrates. They are particularly fond of the tamarind tree, which provides a valuable food source. Due to the dry and often sparse nature of their habitat, they frequently travel across large areas to find sufficient food.
FUN FACT
Ring-tailed lemurs are one of the most vocal primates, with at least 28 distinct calls used for communication. They rely on a combination of vocalisations, scent-marking, and body language to interact with one another. Males have scent glands on their wrists and engage in "stink fights" by rubbing their tails with their scent before waving them at rivals. When travelling, troops raise their tails high to help keep the group together.
HABITAT
These lemurs are found in southern and southwestern Madagascar, particularly in dry forests, spiny forests, and scrubland. They prefer gallery forests along riverbanks but can also adapt to a range of environments, including mountainous and deciduous forests. Unfortunately, habitat destruction due to deforestation, agriculture, and charcoal production poses a significant threat to their survival. While they are protected in some areas, conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring their future.
LIFE SPAN
18 - 33 years.
Adopt a Ring-Tailed Lemur
Lime, Milo, Cyril, and Vix are our lively Ring-Tailed Lemur troop, known for their social bonds and acrobatic moves. These lemurs bring energy and excitement to their habitat every day. By choosing the Hero package, you’re helping us maintain their environment and provide the enrichment they love. Adopt this incredible group today and support their vibrant lives at the zoo!
