Like all species of lemur, the ring-tailed lemur (or Lemur catta) is native to Madagascar and is not naturally found anywhere else in the world. Ring-tailed lemurs have a pointed muzzle, cat-like ears, and a long tail that has 12 or 13 white rings, 13 or 14 black rings, and a tip that is always black. They are usually between 39 and 46cm in size with a tail of 56 to 63cm and live in groups called ‘troops’ that will travel and forage together. Ring-tailed lemurs are omnivorous and will eat fruit, leaves, insects and most other food they can find.
Latin Name
Lemur catta
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Animal Facts
The ring-tailed lemur's Latin name is 'Lemur catta': it is named for its cat-like looks.
The ring-tailed lemur's tail is longer than its body.
Lemurs have specialised lower teeth that form a 'dental comb' used in grooming.
Ring-tailed lemurs have specialised eyes with an adapted reflective layer in the retina that gives them excellent night vision.
Male ring-tailed lemurs engage in 'stink fighting' when in competition for females: they drag their tails through strong-scent secreting glands located on their wrists and shoulders, and then waft their tails at each other.