Lemur Fun for Kids

Lemurs are playful primates with soft fur and big curious eyes. They live in groups, jump through trees, and use their long tails to keep balance. These amazing animals help spread seeds and keep forests healthy in Madagascar. Kids will enjoy learning about their special traits!

Watch a Lemur in Action!

See how a lemur moves, plays, and uses its long tail to swing through the trees.

What is a Lemur?

Lemurs are tree-dwelling primates found only on the island of Madagascar. They are friendly and sociable animals.

• They are primates, related to monkeys and apes.
• They have soft fur, big eyes, and long bushy tails.
• They live in groups called troops.

Where do Lemurs live?

Lemurs live in tropical forests and dry woodlands only on Madagascar, an island off the east coast of Africa.

• They live in trees in rainforests and dry forests.
• They sleep in nests or tree hollows.
• They live in groups of 5–30 lemurs.

What do Lemurs eat?

Lemurs eat different foods depending on the species. Many eat fruit and leaves, and some eat insects.

• Fruit, leaves, flowers, and tree sap.
• Some species eat insects and small animals.
• They use their sense of smell to find food.

How big is a Lemur?

Lemurs come in many sizes. They can fit in the palm of your hand or be as big as a small cat.

• Small species are about 6 inches long (15 cm), like a book.
• Larger ones can be 18 inches long (45 cm), like a pillow.
• They weigh between 0.5 lb (0.2 kg) and 10 lb (4.5 kg).

What sound do Lemurs make?

Lemurs communicate with noises like chirps, grunts, and howls to talk to each other or warn of danger.

Cool Lemur Facts

Lemurs are fascinating animals with many surprising traits!

• Lemurs are only found in Madagascar.
• They help spread seeds by eating fruit and pooping.
• Some lemurs are active at night, others during the day.
• Lemurs groom each other to stay clean and close.
• They use their tails to balance when leaping.
• Some lemurs stand on their back legs to look around.
• Lemurs live in groups called troops to stay safe.

Printables and Coloring Fun

Have fun drawing and coloring your own lemur!

• Download Lemur Coloring Page (PDF)

Lemurs in the Eco-System

Lemurs are important because they help maintain forests and spread seeds. Sadly, many are endangered.

• They spread seeds that grow new trees.
• There are about 100 different lemur species.
• Many lemur species are endangered because forests are cut down.

Ask a Grown‑Up to Help You Learn More

Here are great websites to find out more about lemurs!

• Lemur Facts and Information
• Britannica – Lemur | Description, Types, Diet, & Facts
• Live Science – Lemurs: A diverse group of endangered primates

Fun Questions about Lemurs

Ways to Donate and Support Lemurs

You can help lemurs by supporting groups that protect their homes in Madagascar and plant trees.

Donate – Lemur Conservation Network