Verreaux’s sifaka is a white lemur of Madagascar’s dry south, famous for its ‘dancing’ movement on the ground. It lives in spiny and dry forests and is an iconic sight in reserves such as Berenty.
Interesting facts
- The name ‘sifaka’ comes from its alarm call, which sounds like ‘shee-fak’.
- It can leap about 9 metres between trees.
- Its thick white fur contrasts with a black face and brown cap.
- Sifakas can digest leaves full of tannins that many animals avoid.
- They sunbathe in the morning to warm up.
- They live in groups of about 2 to 12.
Behaviour
Sifakas spend most of their time in trees, clinging and leaping between trunks. They cross open ground by hopping sideways. Groups defend territories with scent marks.
Breeding and young
After about five months, a single infant is born. It clings to its mother’s belly at first, then rides on her back.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss from farming, charcoal production and logging, hunting, and droughts.
Where to see it
- Berenty Reserve, southern Madagascar
- Kirindy Forest, western Madagascar
- Isalo National Park, Madagascar
- Spiny forests near Ifaty, Madagascar
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Where to see the verreaux’s sifaka
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