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Ring-tailed Lemur

ring_tailed_lemur02_sm.jpg: Ring-tailed lemur
ring_tailed_lemur_sm.jpg: Ring-tailed lemur
Range: Southwestern Madagascar (off the eastern coast of Africa)
Habitat: Forests, scrublands, deserts
Conservation Status: Threatened
Scientific Name: Lemur catta

These lemurs live in large social groups averaging 18 members. Like most lemur species, females are dominant to males. Mothers give birth once a year and twins are not uncommon. Female offspring stay in their birth group; males leave when they are three to five years old.

Did You Know?

Males use their striped tails during "stink fights:" they rub their tail over scent glands on their arms, then wave it at their opponent.