Western lesser bamboo lemur

The western lesser bamboo lemur, also known by several other names such as the northern bamboo lemur, western gentle lemur, and Sambirano lesser bamboo lemur, is a unique species found exclusively in Madagascar. These charming primates measure between 55 and 67 cm in total length, with their tails comprising more than half of that measurement. They typically weigh just under 1 kilogram.

These lemurs can be observed in various scattered regions across northern and western Madagascar. They inhabit national parks, strict nature reserves, and special reserves. They prefer dry deciduous forests and humid forests replete with bamboo and bamboo vines, but they are also quite adaptable, thriving in bamboo stands near agricultural areas.

Western lesser bamboo lemurs are social creatures, typically living in groups of around six individuals. They are predominantly nocturnal. Female lemurs have a gestation period of approximately 137 to 140 days and generally give birth to a single infant between October and January. Their diet consists of fruits, flowers from lianas, and various types of bamboo. They coexist peacefully with other lemur species in their habitat.

Regrettably, these lemurs are considered vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and are listed under Appendix 1 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The primary threats to their survival include deforestation for livestock pasture, charcoal production, and mining. In certain areas, such as Makira, hunting with firearms, machetes, and slingshots also poses a significant threat. Presently, there are only eighteen of these lemurs in European zoos.