#varecia

Red-ruffed Lemur (Varecia rubra), family Lemuridae, found in the rainforests of Masoala, NE Madagascar

CRITICALLY ENDANGERED.

image description: a white and black furry lemur stands on a fallen tree (or very large tree branch), looking off to the right of the camera (its left) with striking yellow eyes. image source: Duke Lemur Center, more pictures can be found on their website (see the further reading below)

The Black and White Ruffed Lemur (Varecia variegata) is known as the largest (living) species of pollinator in the world. Weighing up to nine pounds, this lemur species is also one of the largest living lemur species. They have a mutually beneficial relationship with a palm known as the Traveler's Palm (or Traveler's Tree). They are uniquely able to open the tree's flowers, which they do to get at the nectar inside the flowers. Their fluffy fur is perfect for transporting the Traveler's palm's pollen around from tree to tree.

Black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata)

Red-ruffed Lemur (Varecia rubra), family Lemuridae, found in the rainforests of Masoala, NE Madagascar

CRITICALLY ENDANGERED.