Black-and-white Ruffed Lemur
Varecia variegata
Conservation Status
Critically EndangeredMammalia · Primates · Lemuridae
About
The black-and-white ruffed lemur is an endangered species of ruffed lemur, one of two which are endemic to the island of Madagascar. Despite having a larger range than the red ruffed lemur, it has a much smaller population that is spread out, living in lower population densities and reproductively isolated. It also has less coverage and protection in large national parks than the red ruffed lemur. Three subspecies of black-and-white ruffed lemur have been recognized since the red ruffed lemur was elevated to species status in 2001.
Fun Fact
Black-and-white ruffed lemurs are the largest pollinators in the world — they plunge their entire face into traveller's palm flowers to drink nectar, transferring pollen on their fur.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical rainforests
Diet
Frugivore
Lifespan
15-20 years
Threats
- Genetic Bottleneck
- Illegal Wildlife Trade
- Wildfire
- Illegal Logging