Reddish-gray mouse lemur

The reddish-gray mouse lemur, also known as the gray-brown or rufous-gray mouse lemur, is a captivating small primate indigenous to Western Madagascar. It is predominantly found in the region surrounding the Beza Mahafaly Reserve, extending north to Lamboharana. Scientifically classified as Microcebus griseorufus, this species flaunts a distinct and eye-catching coat.

Their fur is an intriguing blend of light and pale neutral gray on the dorsal side, with a light grayish-white ventral side. The front two-thirds of their belly are consistently light grayish-white, while the posterior third transitions into a mix of light grayish-white and pale neutral gray. One of their most distinctive features is a cinnamon-colored stripe that extends from the top of their head or shoulders down to the tip of their tail.

The lemur's head is adorned with a pale gray spot above the nose, cinnamon patches around the eyes, and a clay-colored crown, complemented by light gray ears. Their tail exhibits vibrant coloration, with a cinnamon dorsal side and a grayish-beige ventral side on the outer two-thirds, transitioning to cinnamon with faint brownish-black streaks on the inner third. Their hands and feet are a soft grayish-white, and they possess dark whiskers. Additionally, this species is noted for its relatively robust skull.

The reddish-gray mouse lemur is a fascinating creature whose unique appearance exemplifies the remarkable biodiversity of Madagascar.