The aye-aye is one of the strangest primates on Earth: a nocturnal lemur with big eyes, bat-like ears, rodent-like teeth and a thin, elongated middle finger. It is the only living member of its family.
Interesting facts
- It is the largest nocturnal primate in the world.
- Its front teeth grow continuously, like a rodent’s.
- In 2019, scientists discovered that aye-ayes have a tiny extra ‘pseudothumb’.
- Its foraging method fills the same ecological role that woodpeckers play elsewhere.
- In some parts of Madagascar, aye-ayes are feared as omens of bad luck and killed on sight.
- Large ears help it hear grubs moving inside wood.
Behaviour
Aye-ayes are solitary and nocturnal, spending the day in nests of leaves and branches high in trees. At night they move through the canopy, tapping and listening for insect larvae.
Breeding and young
Females give birth to a single infant every two to three years. The young aye-aye stays with its mother for about two years, a long time for a primate its size.
Threats and conservation
Deforestation, hunting and killing because of superstition, and conflict with farmers when aye-ayes feed on coconuts and other crops.
Where to see it
- Nosy Mangabe Special Reserve, northeast Madagascar
- Aye-aye Island, Mananara
- Palmarium Reserve (Akanin’ny Nofy), eastern Madagascar
- Night walks with local guides give the only realistic chance
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
