Lesser Dwarf Lemur

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The Lesser Dwarf Lemur (Cheirogaleus medius), or Western Fat-Tailed Dwarf Lemur, is one of the smallest primates. It is endemic to Madagascar.

Recent research (Dausmann et al, 2004) has shown that C. medius hibernates, even though in the tropical winter temperatures remain high. It is the first tropical primate in which hibernation has been demonstrated. However, the Malagasy winter is dry, and it appears that the lemur is avoiding the drought. Unlike animals that hibernate in temperate regions, the lemur does not control its body temperature while hibernating, and if the tree hole in which it is sleeping is not well insulated, its body temperature fluctuates in accordance with the outside temperature.

Like other fat-tailed lemurs, C. medius is able to store fat in its tail, and this provides a source of energy during its period of dormancy.

References

• Ganzhorn et al (2000). [Cheirogaleus medius]. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 12 May 2006.
• Dausmann, K. H., Glos, J., Ganzhorn, J. U., & Heldmaier, G.(2004). Hibernation in a tropical primate. Nature, 429, 825-826

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