Aye-aye  (Daubentonia madagascariensis)

Aye-ayes are at risk from the widespread deforestation that is threatening all of Madagascar's primates, as forests are cleared to make way for agriculture and development (2). This species exists at low densities and therefore requires large areas of suitable habitat for a viable population to exist (2). These bizarre-looking animals are the subject of many beliefs in Madagascar and in some regions are seen as ill omens and are persecuted as a result (2). Aye-ayes will feed on plantation crops such as coconuts and lychees and may therefore be treated as pests in some areas (2).

Aye-ayes have been recorded from a number of protected areas within Madagascar (6), including Ankarana Reserve, Ranomafana National Park, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and Nosy Mangabe Special Reserve (8). Captive breeding colonies exist at the Duke Primate Centre, North Carolina (6), at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust (7) and at London Zoo (8). Due to the elusive nature of the aye-aye, population estimates are extremely difficult, but the species is believed to be in decline (2). These concerted conservation efforts will be vital in securing the future of this intriguing and unique mammal.