The indri is a large, black-and-white lemur of Madagascar’s eastern rainforests. It is famous for its eerie, wailing songs and cannot survive outside its forest home.
Interesting facts
- The indri is the largest living lemur.
- It has only a short stub of a tail.
- Indris leap up to about 10 metres between tree trunks.
- In local tradition, the indri is sacred and linked to human ancestors.
- Indris have never been successfully kept in captivity.
- Groups sing mainly in the morning, and neighbouring families answer each other.
Behaviour
Indris live in small family groups and spend their days in the canopy, feeding and resting. They cling to vertical trunks and leap powerfully from tree to tree.
Breeding and young
Females give birth to a single infant every two to three years. The young indri clings to its mother for months.
Threats and conservation
Deforestation from slash-and-burn farming, logging and mining, and hunting despite local taboos.
Where to see it
- Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Madagascar
- Mitsinjo community reserve, Andasibe
- Vakona Forest Reserve, Andasibe
- Early mornings are best to hear their songs
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Andasibe-Mantadia: Hearing the Indri Sing
