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Ring-tailed lemur
The ring‑tailed lemur is one of Madagascar’s most iconic species, native to the southern regions of the island, including areas of dry forest, spiny forest, and scrub. Easily recognised by its long black‑and‑white ringed tail, grey coat, and striking facial markings, it is often the most familiar lemur species to visitors and wildlife enthusiasts.
Take a stroll up Lake Road to spot our troop of ring-tailed lemurs on their island opposite the red pandas.
Class:
Mammalia
Order:
Primates
Family:
Lemuridae
About the ring-tailed lemur
Ring‑tailed lemurs are omnivores, feeding on fruit, leaves, flowers, and occasionally invertebrates. Their adaptability allows them to exploit a variety of food sources in the challenging, seasonally dry habitats of southern Madagascar. They spend more time on the ground than many other lemur species, travelling and foraging in groups.
These lemurs live in highly social troops of around 10 to 30 individuals. Female‑led hierarchies are common, with adult females forming the core of the group and males moving between troops throughout their lives. Their social interactions include grooming, vocal communication, and the characteristic sun‑basking posture that helps them warm up on cool mornings.
Conservation
The ring‑tailed lemur is classified as Endangered by the IUCN. Its restricted range in southern Madagascar is under severe pressure from habitat loss, hunting, and increasingly unpredictable climate patterns. Deforestation for charcoal production, livestock grazing, and agricultural expansion continues to reduce available habitat, while illegal capture for the pet trade remains a concern.
Conservation initiatives focus on in‑situ habitat protection, community‑based programmes in southern Madagascar, and coordinated breeding efforts through EEP and SSP breeding programmes. These efforts aim to maintain genetically healthy captive populations while supporting sustainable conservation strategies in the wild.