Barcode-tailed lemur

The Ring-tailed Lemur (Lemur catta) is a large prosimian found only on the island of Madagascar. Adults reach a body length of 30–45 cm and a weight of 3–3.5 kg. The lemur’s trademark, a barcode-like tail with some 13–16 black rings is longer than its body, at up to 56 cm. Mostly grey with white underparts, the lemur has a slender frame, narrow face and bright yellow or orange bulging eyes. Male lemurs possess special glands on their wrists that secrete a greasy substance which is rubbed onto their tails.

The Ring-tailed Lemur is a daytime animal. It is well capable of climbing rocks and enjoys hanging head down from the cage ceiling. The lemurs are easily handled and reproduce readily in captivity. They primarily eat fruits, leaves, flowers and insects.

Starting August 2002, Art. Lebedev Studio sponsors the one on the right.

You can visit him at the Moscow Zoo located at 1 B. Grouzinskaya Ulitsa. Inner address: New Territory, Monkey House, Lemur Enclosure.

He’ll be glad to see you:

• in summer from 10 a.m. till 7 p.m.
• in winter from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m.
• in spring and fall from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m.

Mondays he takes off to relax.