Red-Ruffed Lemur

Lemurs are an ancient form of primate called prosimians. In particular, the Red-ruffed lemur has a very soft coat that is deep red, with forehead, crown and tail hlack in color, and finally, a white patch at the hack of the neck~ The head-body length is 2Oin-22in, the tail length is 22in-24in and their weight varies from 8 - II lb. The various species of lemurs vary in size, but may range from the size of a squirrel to a large cat. Normally, the tail is longer than the body and their hind legs are larger than their front legs. This enables them to jump great distances.

HABITS: Red-ruffed lemurs are arboreal (living in trees) and crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk). They are very shy and timid. The red-ruffed lemur normally lives in pairs. Ruffed lemurs and the lemur species use loud calls to identify danger and to distinguish between social groups. DIET: In the wild, they eat fruit and plant matter. In the zoo, they eat fruit, vegetables and primate biscuits.

REPRODUCTION: The gestation period ranges from 4 to 6 months. They usually have twins. During the postnatal period the babies are kept in a nest or on a branch, while the mother forages. The offspring cling to the mother consistently for the first three months of life. The baby can get around on its own at approximately seven months. They are sexually mature at two years. CONSERVATION: The red-ruffed lemur is endangered because of habitat destruction and hunting. The Species Survival Plan (S SP) is a conservation program of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) whose goal is to secure the survival of certain vulnerable and significant species. Happy Hollow Zoo participates in the Red-ruffed lemur SSP.