World of Lemurs (Proscimians)

The Lemurs of Madagascar are one of the most critically endangered and one of the oldest species on Earth.  This WORLD currently features three species/subspecies of Lemurs.

Common Name:        Red Ruffed Lemur

Genus/Species:         Varecia variegata rubra

Range:

The island of Madagascar.

Natural Habitat:

Red ruffed lemurs are restricted to the forests of the Masoala Peninsula in northeastern Madagascar. They are separated from the black-and-white ruffed lemur population by the Antainambalana River. The ruffed (both red and black-and-white) lemurs are tree dwellers and are the most arboreal of the true lemurs.

Physical Appearance:

Physical appearance may slightly vary depending on geographic area. Red ruffed lemurs are among the larger of the true lemurs, weighing about 8 pounds. They have a long bushy tail, a neck ruff or mane, a fox-like muzzle and thick fur.

Reproduction:

Red ruffed lemurs can give birth to up to 5 young, but two to three are more common. They breed seasonally, and gestation is just 102 days. The female does not carry her infants but rather builds a nest where she stays with them for almost two weeks. If the female needs to move the infants, she does so by carrying them in her mouth.

STATUS in Natural Habitat:

Classified as Critically Endangered since they have a limited geographic distribution and none of their habitat is protetected.

Cool Fact:

Field studies suggest that red ruffed lemurs, like black-and-white ruffed lemurs, may be found in monogamous pairs or in loosely organized groups. Individuals scattered about the dense forest communicate through loud booming calls. 

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