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The eastern lesser bamboo lemur is one of the smallest bamboo lemurs,
rarely exceeding 1 kg in weight (approximately 2.5 pounds). Their
total body length can range between 56-70 cm. There is no sexual
dimorphism between males and females, meaning that both sexes are
roughly the same size. Neither are males and females sexually
dichromatic; pelage color is the same, ranging from gray to rust-brown,
with darker patches usually found on the head and shoulders (Mittermeier
et al. 2006).
Bamboo lemurs derive their name from their diet: bamboo, which
constitutes nearly three quarters of their diet, and is a unique
characteristic among primates. They will also eat fruits and
flowers, as well as some fungi (Mittermeier et al. 2006). Here at
the reserve, bamboo lemurs are fed a variety of fruits and vegetables,
manufactured primate biscuits, different types of grass, and of course,
bamboo. In one of our forested enclosures, we have planted a very
large stand of bamboo, and when these lemurs free-range, they live
within this area. Geographically, H. griseus is the most
widespread of the bamboo lemurs, and can be found on the eastern side of
Madagascar, from the Masoala Peninsula in the north to Tolagnaro in the
south. They inhabit both primary and secondary rainforests that
contain plentiful stands of bamboo and bamboo vines (Garbutt 1999).
Recent data show that this species is most likely cathemeral, being
active at dawn and dusk (crepuscular), as well as during the day and
night (Garbutt 1999; Mittermeier et al. 2006). Groups of H.
griseus can contain up to seven individuals, with at least one breeding
pair, and sometimes may include more than one breeding female (Mittermeier
et al. 2006). Unlike ring-tailed lemurs, where males migrate from
their natal group upon sexual maturity, both male and female bamboo
lemurs disperse and join different groups.
Gestation for these lemurs is approximately 140 days, at which time
the female will give birth to a single offspring between October and
January (in Madagascar). Initially the offspring are carried in
the mother’s mouth, and then ride dorsally a few weeks after birth.
Eventually, the infants are parked for short periods, while the mothers
forage for food (Garbutt 1999; Mittermeier et al. 2006).
The eastern lesser bamboo lemur is currently listed as Vulnerable on
the IUCN Red List (VU (A2cd). As with other lemurs in Madagascar,
habitat loss is a large threat to this species, but additionally, these
are one of the most heavily hunted lemurs, and are often kept as pets.
However, on a positive note, they are found in at least five national
parks, two nature reserves, and eight special reserves (Mittermeier et
al. 2006).
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Works Cited:
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