With its black-and-white striped tail, soft fur, and expressive eyes, the ring-tailed lemur (known locally as maki catta) is undoubtedly the most famous lemur in Madagascar “an undisputed star”. Easily recognizable and naturally curious, it draws travelers from all over the world every year.
The ring-tailed lemur measures about 40 to 45 cm (excluding the tail) and weighs between 2.2 and 3.5 kg. Its long, striped tail is constantly in motion and helps with both communication and balance. This lemur lives in groups led by a dominant female ,a rarity in the animal kingdom!
Active during the day, the maki enjoys basking in the morning sun and taking long naps in the shade. Its diet is mostly vegetarian: fruits, leaves, flowers… but it may occasionally eat insects or spiders. Its vocalizations change depending on the situation: meows, growls, alarm calls… a true symphony of the Malagasy bush!
The ring-tailed lemur has not been spared from human activity. Due to deforestation, hunting, and capture for the pet trade, its population has declined by nearly 50% in the past 30 years. Fortunately, several reserves and parks still protect this iconic animal.
Where to See Ring-Tailed Lemurs?
Here are the best places to spot this lemur in its natural habitat:
| Observation Site | Region | Highlights |
| Anja Community Reserve | Between Fianarantsoa and Ihosy | Easy observation, many individuals, community-managed ecotourism |
| Berenty Private Reserve | Near Taolagnaro (South) | Renowned sanctuary, gallery forest, exceptional biodiversity |
| Andohahela National Park | Far Southeast | Varied landscapes, species present in multiple zones of the park |
Spotting a maki in the wild is always a surprise — they’re so unpredictable! You catch their mischievous gaze, follow them leaping through the trees, and smile at their playful behavior and calls. An unforgettable memory of Madagascar.
