Milne-Edwards' sifaka

Milne-Edwards's sifaka, also known as Milne-Edwards's simpona, is a sizable, arboreal lemur native to Madagascar's eastern coastal rainforests. A close relative of the diademed sifaka, it is part of the Indriidae family. Unfortunately, this species is endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and climate change.

Milne-Edwards's sifaka is one of the larger diurnal lemurs, distinguished by its striking black and light-colored fur. It possesses prehensile thumbs and toes, facilitating strong grips for both grooming and navigating the treetops. Renowned for their acrobatic skills, these lemurs move by clinging vertically to trees and leaping between them. Their diet consists of leaves, seeds, flowers, and fruit.

Socially, these lemurs live in groups with multiple males and females, with females typically taking on leadership roles. Their social structure and behaviors are influenced by resource availability and mating opportunities. Reproduction occurs once a year, with mating during the summer and births in the winter.

Milne-Edwards's sifakas inhabit both primary and secondary rainforests in Madagascar, coexisting with other lemur species. Most research on these lemurs takes place in Ranomafana National Park. Notably, this species is not kept in captivity.