Cheirogaleidae – Dwarf & mouse lemurs
Smallest lemurs & smallest primates, weighing no more than 500 g (1.1 pound)
This family is home to the smallest primates known, weighing no more than 500g (1.1 pounds). These animals generally have long, soft fur that is reddish to grey-brown on the upper side and a lighter shade underside. They also have large, close-set eyes, small ears, and long hind legs.
Dwarf and mouse lemurs are arboreal and nocturnal. They are great climbers and can jump long distances using their tails to balance themselves. When they are on the ground, they move by using their hind legs in a hopping motion. However, they are seldom seen on the ground.
Genera in this family
Nocturnal and solitary, and home to the world’s smallest primate – Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur
