Eulemur macaco (Linnaeus, 1766)

Size

Physical description: The black lemur (Eulemur macaco) has a total length between 90 and 110 centimeters, with 51 to 65 centimeters of that length being its tail. Its body weight typically ranges from 1.8 to 2.0 kilograms.

Sexual Dimorphism

This species shows clear sexual dimorphism in fur coloration: males have black or dark chocolate-colored fur, while females have lighter brown fur, most often medium brown, chestnut brown, or even orange-brown. Males also have large black ear tufts, while females have large white ear tufts.

Co-occurring Species

Only two other Eulemur species live within the black lemur's range: the common brown lemur, which overlaps with the black lemur at the extreme southern and eastern edge of the black lemur's range, and the red-bellied lemur, found on the Tsaratanana Massif. Both of these species have different coloration and do not exhibit the extreme sexual dimorphism seen in black lemurs, so it is unlikely that black lemurs will be confused with these other species.

Mating Season

Reproduction: Mating for black lemurs usually occurs in April and May. During the mating season, antagonistic behavior between males increases, and males sometimes travel between different social groups.

Gestation & Offspring

After a gestation period of approximately 125 days, a single infant is usually born between late August and early October. Females typically produce their first offspring when they are two years old.