Dry forest and humid forest of Northwestern Madagascar and three of the nearby Comoros Islands
diet
Flowers, fruits, nectar and leaves
Reproduction
Each pair has one offspring born each year
life expectancy
Up to 30 years
predators
Fossa, boa constrictor and hawk
natural defenses
Climbing abilities
About the Species
Mongoose lemurs have differing fur coloration depending on their gender. Males are gray-brown and have a reddish “beard” and cheek fur. Females are gray overall with white facial hair. Juvenile Mongoose lemurs begin leaving their mother briefly at about 6 weeks old. They are weaned by 5 to 6 months old. They live in groups of a pair of adults and one to four of their immature offspring. Habitat loss due to human farming, burning, cattle pastures and charcoal making is the main cause of vulnerability for this species.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Eulemur mongoz
Wildlife Insights
WORD FROM THE EXPERTS
Mongoose lemurs will wave their tails back and forth while letting out low grunt vocalizations to alert the family of dangers in the area.