Species profile
About this species
The red-bellied lemur is a medium-sized lemur endemic to the rainforests of eastern Madagascar. It is named for the distinctive chestnut-red belly of the male, while females display white tear-drop markings below their eyes. This species is diurnal & cathemeral, living in small family groups & feeding primarily on fruit, leaves & nectar.
Primary & secondary tropical rainforests in the eastern highlands of Madagascar, typically found at elevations between 900 & 1800 metres in dense montane forest.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Red-bellied lemur with us in Madagascar.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning hours between 6am & 9am when lemurs are most active & feeding, during the dry season between April & October when forest trails are more accessible.
Use a telephoto lens of at least 300mm to capture close-up portraits without disturbing the animals in their canopy habitat. Shoot in burst mode when the lemurs are moving between branches to increase your chances of a sharp, well-composed frame. Pay attention to background clutter & position yourself to isolate the subject against cleaner, darker foliage for a more striking image.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Red-bellied lemur
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.