The red ruffed lemur inhabits deciduous tropical forests in the northeast area of Madagascar. This lemur species lives in trees and can be found in branches up to 3,300 feet in elevation!

The red ruffed lemur is the largest species of lemur we have here at the Zoo. Both males and females average 43-47 inches in length including a bushy tail that can reach up to 25 inches long. These lemurs have a complex communication system made up of at least 12 different vocalizations. The alarm calls can be grunts, gurgling sounds or a cackle. The red ruffed lemurs can recognize the calls of the black and white ruffed lemurs, too. Both lemur species will warn each other if danger is near.

Did You Know?
Like all prosimians, these lemurs lack extensive digit coordination so grooming is done with their “toothcomb,” an area made up of six bottom teeth. They also have a special claw that accompanies the second toe of their back feet that is used to brush their fluffy coat of fur.