Less well known than Madagascar’s other lemurs, the Bandro, or lake lemur (Hapalemur alaotrensis), is a species of aquatic lemur found in eastern Madagascar. It is the only lemur on the entire island that inhabits mainly marshy areas, the island’s largest freshwater plain. This small primate is easily recognized by its gray coat, small rounded ears, and the shape of its hands and feet, which force it to move differently. Bandro are mainly herbivores, feeding on reeds and various aquatic plants, making them particularly well adapted to their humid environment. Bandro are also sociable animals, living in family groups of up to six individuals.
The Bandro is a swamp balancer :
Bandro are perfectly adapted to their aquatic habitat. They have long, slender fingers and toes, enabling them to move with ease through reeds and swamps. To progress, they cling to a reed stem until it bends and they can grab another, balancing themselves with their tail. They also climb, jump, or swim when necessary. Their diet consists mainly of young reed shoots, or zetra in Malagasy, and papyrus, as well as leaves and fruit available in their habitat. They play a crucial role in the local ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and maintain the balance of aquatic plants. To observe them, a stay at Bandro Camp is the best option. It’s the starting point for a guided morning visit by pirogue to get up close and personal with this lemur of the Lac Alaotra marshes. This nature camp offers four bungalows, a communal dining room, and a sanitary block made from local materials.
A critically endangered species :
Despite their adaptability, Bandro are now critically endangered. Major threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation, conversion of swamps to farmland, and intensive fishing. They are also hunted for their meat, although this is illegal. Managed by a local association linked to Madagascar Wildlife Conservation, Bandro Camp also serves as a field base for marsh conservation and awareness-raising activities. Revenue from accommodation and guiding is used to support the association’s efforts to maintain and conserve the nature reserve where the Bandro live in complete freedom.
