Ring-tailed lemur
Ring-tailed lemur 5/24/2021 The ring-tailed lemur is one of the most iconic species of lemur out there. The name makes them very easily recognizable, with their long ringed tails, that they often proudly hold in the air. Their tails are around 2 feet long as adults, live about 16-19 years in the wild, and are indigenous to Madagascar. There is an estimated 2,000-2,4000 ring-tailed lemurs left on Madagascar, due to habitat loss. Deforestation, and illegal hunting for pet trade are the main causes, as well as a few droughts in 1991 and 1994 that caused a 31% drop in population, taking four years to recover. Being the most populous species of primate in Madagascar, lemurs overall play a crucial part in spreading seeds through the food they eat. Their diet consists of leaves, fruit and insects, and they live in social groups of 25-30. Without lemurs, Madagascar would surely lose a lot of its biodiversity, especially in its plant life. The island is home to many indigenous animals and plan