A typical and highly iconic animal of Madagascar is the lemur. Lemurs are a group of primates unique to the island of Madagascar. With their large, reflective eyes, long tails, and a somewhat mystical quality, lemurs have become synonymous with the island’s unique wildlife.

There are about 100 different species and subspecies of lemurs, varying greatly in size and behavior. Some of the more well-known species include the Ring-tailed lemur, known for its strikingly banded tail and sociable nature; the Indri, which is the largest of the living lemurs and noted for its loud, distinctive calls that resonate through the rainforests; and the tiny Mouse lemurs, which are among the smallest primates in the world.

Lemurs play critical roles in their ecosystems, such as pollinating flowers and dispersing seeds, helping to maintain the health of their forest habitats. Unfortunately, many lemur species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and other pressures. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these unique creatures and their habitats in Madagascar.