Brown lemurs are a large genus (Eulemur) within the ‘true lemur’ family, and include some of the lemur species most frequently seen by visitors. There are 12 species, of which eight are covered in this guide. Brown lemurs are medium-sized, vocal, and generally found in groups. Unusually for lemurs, the male and female of most species have obviously different coloration. They are generally diurnal, but can also be active at night. Fruit is their most important food, although other plant parts and small animals are also eaten. This is another group in which the number of species has increased in recent years, due to the recognition of several species that were formerly considered subspecies of Brown Lemur.
DISTRIBUTION: Found in both rainforest and dry forest in the far north.
ID: The male has white tufts around the face, while the female is quite plain. Occurs alongside the similarly sized. Crowned Lemur (page 50), but has a very different facial pattern.
VOICE: Makes a guttural grunting, often imitated by local guides, and also gives a squealing call.
BEHAVIOUR: Active during both day and night, usually in small groups. Young are born in September or early October. Feeds on fruit, leaves, and flowers. Often found in mixed groups with Crowned Lemur.
WHERE TO SEE: Not hard to find in Amber Mountain and Ankarana NPs, but mainly in the famous Anja reserve.
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