(Lemur catta)
The ring-tailed lemur is a primate endemic to Madagascar, famous for its long tail with black and white rings. It inhabits dry forests, scrublands, and rocky areas, showing great adaptability to different ecosystems.
Characteristics
It measures between 39 and 46 cm, with a tail of 56–63 cm and a weight of 2.2 to 3.5 kg. Its fur is grayish with a white face and black patches around the eyes. The non-prehensile tail is essential for visual communication and balance.
Diet
Omnivorous, it mainly consumes fruits, leaves, flowers, bark, and insects. Its diet adapts to the dry season by taking advantage of available resources such as sap and shoots.
Behavior and reproduction
It lives in social groups of up to 30 individuals led by females. Gestation lasts about 135 days, after which a single offspring is born. The ring-tailed lemur has a life expectancy of 16–19 years in the wild and up to 27 years in captivity.
Conservation
It is classified as an endangered species due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade.
