Ring-Tailed Lemur
Lemur catta
- Where
- Madagascar
- Habitat
- Dry forests and scrublands
- Diet
- Fruits, leaves, flowers, bark
- Size
- 20-30 inches (50-75 cm) long, plus tail
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in wild, up to 30 years captive
- Conservation
- Endangered due to habitat loss, hunting for bushmeat, and pet trade
Fun Facts
- They have the longest tail of any lemur — up to 22 inches!
- Ring-tailed lemurs are known for their scent marking: they rub their tails on rocks and plants.
- Males don't live with their own families, instead joining bachelor groups.
Learn More
They have thick fur that's reddish-brown with white rings on their tail.
Ring-tailed lemurs are social animals living in large groups led by a dominant female.
These lemurs communicate using scent, vocalizations, and body language.