Crowned lemur (Eulemur coronatus)

Species information

Videos and images

Threats

This species is threatened by habitat loss due to cultivation, logging, development and forest fires (2). These factors have dramatically reduced suitable habitat for the crowned lemur, and even though it occurs in four protected areas, the reserves themselves are fragmented, restricting this species’ home ranges and breeding potential (6). Research suggests that logging, grazing and hunting continues even within these reserves (6).

Conservation

Protection within Madagascar’s northern reserves must be improved if the crowned lemur is to survive. International trade of this species is prohibited by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) and the IUCN recommends the protection of this species as a priority case (6). Captive breeding programmes in zoos have been established and should be expanded, with a view to reintroducing individuals into protected reserves in the near future (2).