The ring-tailed lemur is Madagascar’s most recognisable lemur and a symbol of the island’s unique wildlife. It lives in the dry south and southwest, in social groups led by females, and is highly vocal and scent-oriented.
Interesting facts
- Its black-and-white ringed tail is longer than its body.
- Ring-tailed lemurs spend more time on the ground than any other lemur.
- Females are dominant over males and lead the group.
- They sunbathe in the morning, sitting upright with arms outstretched towards the sun.
- Ring-tailed lemurs communicate with many calls, including cat-like meows.
- Surveys suggest wild numbers have fallen sharply in recent decades.
Behaviour
Groups of about 6 to 30 animals travel and forage together by day, holding their tails high to stay in contact. They mark territory with scent glands on their wrists and genitals and defend it from neighbouring groups.
Breeding and young
Females are fertile for only a day or so each year. After about four and a half months, they give birth to one or two infants, which cling to their mother’s belly and later ride on her back.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss from slash-and-burn farming, charcoal production and cattle grazing; hunting; and capture for the illegal pet trade. Climate change is making droughts in southern Madagascar more severe.
Where to see it
- Berenty Reserve, southern Madagascar
- Anja Community Reserve, near Ambalavao
- Isalo National Park
- Accredited zoos worldwide
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Ranomafana and Isalo: A Madagascar Wildlife Itinerary
