The greater bamboo lemur

This tree-dwelling species grows up in polygamous groups of 60 individuals according to a “fusion-fission” social system which still mystifies ethologists. They are cathemeral animals, active both at night and during the day. The great bamboo lemurs have seen 90% of their original forest disappear thanks to intensive deforestation and the expansion of mining. They can still be found in the rainforests of the eastern part of the island and the rural commune of Tsaratanana.

This highly agile animal has hind legs that are longer than its front legs, enabling it to leap easily from branch to branch. Its long tail acts as a pendulum and helps it to keep its balance.

It was thought to be extinct when in 1986 several individuals were discovered in Kianjavato and Ranomafana National Park.