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Propithecus verreauxi population and ranging at Berenty, Madagascar, 1975 and 1980
Folia Primatologica; International Journal of Primatology
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Verreaux's sifakas (Propithecus verreauxi) exhibit troop changes and varying sex ratios. Recent observations suggest potential male migration or population shifts, highlighting the need for continued monitoring of this lemur population.
Area of Science:
- Primate behavior
- Ecology
- Zoology
Background:
- Propithecus verreauxi populations at Berenty Reserve have been studied since 1963.
- Previous research documented troop rearrangements and territorial defense in Verreaux's sifakas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in Verreaux's sifaka troop dynamics and ranging patterns.
- To compare lemur behavior in November 1980 with data from 1963-1975.
Main Methods:
- Repeated censuses of Propithecus verreauxi troops were conducted between 1963 and 1975.
- Troop census in November 1980, during a different season than previous studies.
Main Results:
- Both male and female Verreaux's sifakas demonstrated troop changes outside the breeding season.
- Observed larger troop feeding dispersion and solitary/triplet males in 1980, differing from earlier findings.
- Group sex ratios varied significantly, from 0.3 to 5.0 females per male.
Conclusions:
- The 1980 observations suggest a possible seasonal male migration or a long-term population change in Propithecus verreauxi.
- The Berenty Reserve's lemur population stability requires careful, ongoing monitoring.