Indri
50% of youIndri
About the size of a medium dog
Photo: Charles J. Sharp (CC BY-SA 4.0)
3 featured species · 3 habitat zones
Animals of Madagascar
Madagascar is an island country located off the southeastern coast of Africa. It is famous for its unique animals, many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The country's diverse habitats range from tropical rainforests to dry deserts, making it a wonderful place for different kinds of wildlife.
Featured Species
Habitat Zones
Rainforest
Madagascar's rainforest is lush and green, with tall trees, hanging vines, and lots of rain. It's special because it's home to many unique plants and animals found nowhere else.
Indri, Sifaka, Aye-aye
Dry Forest
The dry forest in Madagascar has trees that lose their leaves in the dry season, and the ground is often covered with dry leaves and branches. It's special because of its unique animals that have adapted to survive with less water.
Ring-tailed Lemur, Verreaux's Sifaka, Madagascar Hognose Snake
Wetlands
The wetlands are watery areas like swamps and marshes, filled with tall grasses and water plants. They are special because they are a habitat for many birds and other water-loving animals.
Nile Crocodile, Madagascar Fish Eagle, Golden Bamboo Lemur
How Big Are They?
Each animal shown next to a 10-year-old (🧒) at true scale.
Tenrec
20% of youSmaller than a loaf of bread
Aye-aye
40% of youAbout the size of a large house cat
Where to Spot Them
Indri
Look in: Northeastern rainforests
Watch for: Indri live in small family groups and are monogamous.
Tenrec
Look in: Across Madagascar
Watch for: Some tenrecs are active during the day, while others are nocturnal.
Aye-aye
Look in: Scattered throughout Madagascar
Watch for: Aye-ayes are mostly nocturnal and spend their nights searching for food.
Cultural Connection
The people of Madagascar, known as the Malagasy, have a strong connection to their natural environment and traditional beliefs often influence conservation efforts.
Vocabulary
If you've ever seen a lemur in a movie or TV show, it most likely came from Madagascar!