Madame Berthe's Mouse Lemur is the smallest known primate, weighing only around 30 grams (1 ounce). Native to Madagascar, it has a large, round head and a short, dense fur coat with a grayish-brown color.
These lemurs are nocturnal and arboreal, spending most of their time in trees. They are solitary foragers, feeding on insects, fruits, and nectar, and communicate with a variety of vocalizations and scents.
Breeding
Madame Berthe's Mouse Lemur breeds during Madagascar's dry season, with females giving birth to one or two offspring. The gestation period lasts about two months, and infants are weaned after a few months.
Characteristics
They are small, with a body length of about 9-11 cm and a tail nearly the same length. Their large eyes help them navigate at night, and their furry tails aid in balance.
History
Discovered in 1992, Madame Berthe's Mouse Lemur is named after the French primatologist Madame Berthe, who contributed to lemur research. It is found exclusively in the dry forests of western Madagascar.
Current Status
This lemur is critically endangered due to habitat loss from deforestation and human encroachment. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat preservation and monitoring their population in the wild.
