Coquerel's mouse lemur  (Mirza coquereli)

This species is predated on by nocturnal raptors such as owls, which may take up to 30% of the Coquerel's mouse lemur's population in a year (4). Over the past several decades, however, a greater threat to the future of this species has emerged. Forest destruction due to cultivation, logging, development and fires has dramatically reduced suitable habitat for much of Madagascar's wildlife, including that of this species (6). Research suggests that this lemur may be able to adapt to secondary forest, which may help it survive the partial destruction of its natural habitat. However, its range in Madagascar is limited and individual's home ranges are becoming increasingly fragmented and may reduce their breeding potential (1) (2).

This species occurs in a number of protected areas in Madagascar, though surveys are required to assess the population numbers within them. Captive breeding programmes have also been established at a number of zoos and related institutions and provide potential for re-introduction programmes in the future. Madagascar has one of the highest levels of endemic biodiversity in the world and it is hoped that habitat protection of its habitat in the future will help to save vulnerable wildlife like the Coquerel's mouse lemur (1) (2).