White-fronted brown lemur  (Eulemur albifrons)

This medium-sized lemur has a horizontal posture, which is suited to its predominantly quadrupedal mode of movement (2). These lemurs are also capable of leaping considerable distances, their long furry tails assisting them in maintaining their balance (5). This lemur is generally dark brown with a lighter underside (5). Males have a black face surrounded by a distinctive snowy white forehead, crown, beard and throat (6). The head, face and muzzle of the female are dark grey, but without the bushy cheeks of the male (2).

Restricted to north-eastern Madagascar (2).

Found in moist lowland and montane rainforest (4). Brown lemurs are arboreal and spend most of their time in the upper layers of the forest (7).

Brown lemurs live in cohesive groups without a noticeable hierarchy, generally numbering from 3 to 12 individuals, although five to seven seems to be average (2) (6). Breeding occurs in June (6), with a single offspring born between September and October, after a gestation period of approximately 120 days (5) (6). White-fronted brown lemurs can live up to 30 years (2) (5).

This species is cathemeral, meaning it is active at varying times throughout the day and night. Fruit, mature leaves, flowers, bark, sap, soil, insects, centipedes and millipedes form the bulk of this lemur's diet (7).

Destruction of the rainforest in north-eastern Madagascar by slash-and-burn agriculture is particularly acute, and constitutes the primary threat to the white-fronted lemur. Hunting and trapping for food or the pet trade may also pose a significant threat to this lemur in many parts of its range (2).

The white-fronted brown lemur's presence has been confirmed in six protected areas, including three national parks, one nature reserve and two special reserves (4). Captive bred populations also exist in institutions worldwide (5). The fate of the white-fronted brown lemur will most probably be determined by the future of its forest habitat, which needs to be better preserved if the survival of this lemur is to be safeguarded.

For further information on the white-fronted brown lemur see:

Garbutt, N. (1999) Mammals of Madagascar. Pica Press, Sussex.

Mittermeier, R.A., Tattersall, I., Konstant, W.R., Meyers, D.M., and Mast, R.B. (1994) Lemurs of Madagascar. Conservation International, Washington, D.C.

Animal Diversity Web:
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html

Authenticated (21/11/2005) by Matt Richardson, independent primatologist and writer.