Predatory behavior in captive Lemur spp

Lemur fulvus mayottensis, L catta , and L mongoz mongoz at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust readily catch and consume proffered crickets and locusts. Lf mayottensis and L m mongoz also readily catch and consume small birds and mice, whilst these are ignored by L catta and L variegatus. These differences probably reflect real differences in the predatory behavior of these species, though they may also relate to cage specifications or to the history of the particular groups. These captive lemurs are either perpetuating previously unsuspected wild habits or else innovating in captivity. Observed Lemur predation resembles that of other primate species in being primarily accomplished by dominant individuals (in lemurs, generally adult females), and involving group excitement, as well as snatching and begging by subordinates, which could lead to traditions of predatory behavior.