The Red Ruffed Lemur is one of the largest species of lemur. They can measure up to 56 cms (22 inches) in length, have a tail that is up to 60 cms (23.6 inches) in length and they weigh between 3.5 and 4 kgs (7.7 - 8.8 lbs).
They are red/brown in colour with their head, tail, stomach and feet being black. They have a mane or "ruff" of fur around their neck and a white patch of fur at the back of their neck.
They are active during the day with most activity being in the morning and evening. Red Ruffed Lemurs have at least 12 different vocalizations that they use as a method of communication. They also communicate using scent marking.
Habitat
Red Ruffed Lemurs live in the rain forests of Masoala in north east Madagascar. They live in the trees in small groups that consist of 2 - 6 members, these are usually the breeding pair and their off spring. They sometimes come together with other families forming loose groups of up to 30 individuals.
Diet
Red Ruffed Lemurs mainly eat fruit, pollen, nectar, seeds, leaves and flowers. Approximately 75% of their diet consists of fruit.
Breeding
Red Ruffed Lemurs breed from May to July and they build nests high up in the trees from twigs, leaves, vines and fur. After a gestation period of approximately 102 days, a litter of 1 - 6 young is produced. However, the average number of young per litter is 2 - 3.
The young lemurs begin to leave the nest at 3 - 7 weeks and they are weaned at 4 months old. Males reach sexual maturity between 1 and 2 years of age and females between 2 and 3 years of age.
Predators
The main predators of Red Ruffed Lemurs are boa constrictors, eagles and the fossa. The Lemur will let out a loud call to warn the others if it spots a predator.
