Lemurs

Lemurs are furry primates with big, round eyes. They live only on the island of Madagascar and a few nearby islands. There are many kinds of lemurs, and they come in different sizes. Some are tiny and others are as big as a house cat.

Big Eyes and Long Tails

Lemurs have large eyes that help them see at night. Many lemurs are active after the sun goes down. They have long tails that help them balance when jumping between trees. Their tails can be longer than their bodies.

In Danger

Many lemurs are in danger of dying out. People have cut down a lot of the forests where they live. Scientists and helpers are working hard to save the lemurs. Protecting the forests of Madagascar helps keep lemurs safe.

Fun Facts

• The smallest lemur, the mouse lemur, can fit in your hand.
• Ring-tailed lemurs love to sit in the sun with their arms stretched out.
• Lemurs can jump up to 25 feet from tree to tree.

Did You Know?

The name lemur comes from an old word that means ghost, because their big eyes and calls at night seemed spooky long ago.