Primate Watching

Primatology

 

Taxonomy & Occurrence

Varecia rubra is a monotypic species. It has a restricted range in northeastern Madagascar. Endemic to the primary rainforests of the Masoala Peninsula and the region north of Antongil Bay, this species is separated from the closely related Black-&-white Ruffed Lemur (Varecia variegata) by the Antainambalana River [1].

 

IUCN Conservation Status

Critically Endangered

Seeing this Species

 

The Red Ruffed Lemur is large and dark red in colour with a black face and tail. The characteristic red ear tufts gave it its name. Usually seen in the tree canopy, it can also be detected by its loud and unmistakable vocalisations.

 

Masoala National Park, Masoala Peninsula, Madagascar 

The Masoala National Park, including the Nosy Mangabe Reserve, is Madagascar's largest national park. The park can be accessed from the town of Maroantsetra by boat, or from the town of Antalaha by road using taxi or motorbike. Arrangements for a local guide and boat can be made through the well-organised National Park office in Maroantsetra.  

 

Multi-day hikes are available in this wild and expansive park. Most of the trails hug the coastline (Humpback Whales can be seen in-season), while others extend into the rainforest - the latter might be one of your best locations to see the Red Ruffed Lemur. You can stay overnight in some of the villages dotted along the coast, where accommodation ranges from simple bungalows to high-end secluded lodges. A multi-night stay is recommended for this magical part of Madagascar.

 

Probability of success: ◆ ◆ ◆ ◇ ◇

 

Overlapping species: Aye-aye, Greater Dwarf Lemur, Hairy-eared Dwarf Lemur, Masoala Fork-crowned Lemur, Masoala Sportive Lemur, Masoala Woolly Lemur, Seal's Sportive Lemur, Western Lesser Bamboo Lemur, White-fronted Brown Lemur 

 

Other sites:

Makira Forest Protected Area

This protected area harbours a high lemur diversity with at least 14 species.

 

Overlapping species: Aye-aye, Black-&-white Ruffed Lemur, Common Brown Lemur, Eastern Woolly Lemur, Greater Dwarf Lemur, Indri, MacArthur's Mouse Lemur (provisionally present), Masoala Fork-crowned Lemur, Red-bellied Lemur, Seal's Sportive Lemur, Silky Sifaka, Western Lesser Bamboo Lemur, White-fronted Brown Lemur

 

Local contacts: Emile is a local guide and a friend - experienced and highly recommended. Do ask for him at the park office!