Category: Mammals
Like all lemurs, this easily recognized primate is native to the island of Madagascar. They are omnivorous, diurnal, and the most terrestrial of the lemur species. They are highly social and may live in female dominated groups of up to 30 individuals. Their species name, catta, makes reference to their feline form and purring vocalizations reminiscent of domestic cats.
Wake me in 9 months…
There may be times when you are so tired you feel as if you could sleep for several days - but of course that is not possible without dying from dehydration. However, some mammals have such fine control over their metabolisms, they are capable of nodding off for days or even months, in a state called hibernation. This helps an animal survive during cold periods when food is scarce. A prime example is the alpine marmot who can hibernate for up to 9 months of the year: gathering food and adding about 50% more body weight (primarily fat) as summer ends, the alpine marmot seals itself in a deep burrow, heart rate slowing to five beats per minute, breathing as little as once per minute - emerging (far lighter!) in May, when food is once again available!
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Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
