Observation of Propithecus verreauxi: Daily Movements, Feeding Behaviour, and Social Interactions at Zazamalala Wildlife Centre

Zala Vidmar, & Lea Vodopivec

Section of Conservation Biology, Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Koper, Slovenia

Abstract

This study investigates the behavioural ecology of Propithecus verreauxi (Verreaux’s sifaka) during the dry season at the Zazamalala Wildlife Centre in western Madagascar. Over a one-month observation period in August 2025, data were collected on a group of six individuals, including infants and juveniles, using continuous sampling across morning and afternoon sessions. Key behavioural parameters examined included feeding habits, social interactions, locomotion, and habitat use. Sifakas displayed a diverse diet comprising leaves, fruits, flowers, and seeds from both native and non-native tree species, with peak feeding activity observed between 09:00 and 11:00. Notable behaviours included sunbasking, ground-based play, and the early onset of infant independence. Vocalisations were regularly recorded, with context-specific calls observed during separation events and maternal interactions. These findings highlight P. Verreauxi’s adaptability in fragmented and regenerating habitats and underscore the ecological importance of secondary growth and non-native flora during the dry season. The study contributes to ongoing conservation efforts by offering insights into the behavioural flexibility and habitat use of this critically endangered species.

Introduction

The family Indriidae comprises three genera: Indri, Avahi, and Propithecus (Mittermeier et al., 2010). The genus Propithecus includes species that are distributed allopathically across Madagascar. Currently, nine species are recognized within the genus. Among these, Propithecus verreauxi, commonly known as Verreaux’s sifaka, is one of the most widely recognized (King et al., 2012).

Distribution and Habitat

P. verreauxi is endemic to Madagascar, with its distribution confined to the southern and western regions of the island. It primarily inhabits dry deciduous forests, spiny thickets, and gallery forests (Ganzhorn, 1995). However, its distribution is increasingly fragmented due to habitat degradation and human encroachment (Irwin et al., 2010).

Morphology and Physical Description

Adults of P. verreauxi typically reach a total length of 90–110 cm, including the tail, with an average body mass of approximately 3.5 kg (Kappeler, 1991). The species is easily distinguished by its long hind limbs, which are adapted for vertical clinging and leaping, dense white pelage with darker markings on the head and extremities, and a long bushy tail. There is minimal sexual dimorphism, with males and females being similar in both size and appearance.

Ecology and Behaviour

Verreaux’s sifakas are diurnal and arboreal, known for their remarkable ability to leap between vertical supports (Kappeler, 1991). Their diet is primarily folivorous, though they also consume fruits, flowers, and seeds, depending on seasonal availability (Richard, 1978). Social groups typically consist of 2–13 individuals and are characterized by female dominance, a common trait in lemur species (Jolly, 1966). Communication within the group involves vocalizations, scent-marking, and physical interactions (Palagi et al., 2004).

Reproduction

Breeding occurs seasonally, with females being in estrus for a short period each year (Richard et al., 2002). The gestation period lasts approximately 130–140 days, and typically, a single offspring is born. Initially, infants are carried ventrally and later dorsally as they mature. Maternal care is intensive, with offspring remaining dependent on the mother for several months.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies P. verreauxi as critically endangered (IUCN, 2025). The species’ population is declining across its range, and local extirpations have been reported in heavily disturbed habitats (Irwin et al., 2010).

Threats

The primary threats to P. verreauxi include: habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation, slash-and-burn agriculture, charcoal production, and logging (Harper et al., 2007). Hunting and poaching, driven by both bushmeat trade and opportunistic killings by local communities (Barrett & Ratsimbazafy, 2009). Climate change, which exacerbates habitat degradation and alters vegetation dynamics in arid regions (Brown & Yoder, 2015).

Conservation Measures

Several populations of P. verreauxi are found within protected areas, including Kirindy Mitea National Park and Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park (Mittermeier et al., 2010). Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, community-based forest management, and awareness campaigns to reduce hunting pressure. Ex-situ conservation through captive breeding programs has also been initiated, though the long-term success of these initiatives is contingent on maintaining viable wild populations (Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, 2021).

Zazamalala Wildlife Centre

Field observations of Propithecus verreauxi were conducted at the Zazamalala Wildlife Centre, a privately managed reserve located near Morondava in western Madagascar. The site is characterized by restored fragments of dry deciduous forest, a habitat that has been extensively degraded in the region (Harper et al., 2007). Since its establishment in 2000, Zazamalala has played a critical role in both forest regeneration and wildlife conservation, providing a semi-protected environment that supports a range of endemic species (Mittermeier et al., 2010; Zazamalala Foundation, 2023). This site serves as an ideal context for studying sifaka ecology, combining naturally regenerating forests with areas of secondary growth, which allows researchers to explore how sifakas utilize altered habitats.

The P. verreauxi population at Zazamalala offers valuable insights into behavioural flexibility, group composition, and feeding ecology in the context of habitat fragmentation. Sifakas at the reserve were observed engaging in typical vertical clinging and leaping locomotion, along with exploiting a diverse diet of leaves, flowers, and seasonal fruits (Kappeler, 1991; Richard, 1978). Additionally, the study site facilitated the monitoring of intergroup interactions and reproductive behaviours in a relatively accessible setting, while still being ecologically relevant to the species’ natural distribution. Research conducted at Zazamalala thus contributes to our understanding of P. verreauxi‘s adaptability and highlights the importance of reforestation initiatives in sustaining viable lemur populations (Irwin et al., 2010; Zazamalala Foundation, 2023).

Methods

We conducted behavioural observations of Propithecus verreauxi over a month of August 2025, during the dry season in western Madagascar, in Zazamalala Wildlife Centre. Data collection occurred daily during two time blocks: 09:00–11:00 and 14:00–17:00. Observations focused on a range of behavioural and ecological parameters, including foraging habits, dietary preferences, sleeping site selection, preferred tree species, and social interactions with conspecifics and humans. Additional noteworthy behaviours were recorded as they occurred. A continuous sampling method was employed, with each observation annotated with the corresponding time of occurrence to support temporal analysis. Visual and audio data, including vocalizations of Propithecus verreauxi, were additionally recorded using a mobile phone device to supplement behavioural observations and support subsequent analysis.

Results

We observed a group of sifakas consisting of six individuals, including four adults, one one-year-old, and one infant.

Sifakas verreauxi are most often found in trees such as Buffalothorn (Ziziphus zizyphus), Mahafangalitra (Stereospermum sp.), Robotsy (Senegalia rovumae), Hazomby (Hirtella thouarsiana), Lamoty (Catunaregam spinosa), Teak (Tectona grandis), Sakoa (Sclerocarya birrea), Manga (Mangifera indica), Rain tree (Albizia saman), Kapok tree (Ceiba pentandra), Voafona (Antidesma madagascariensis), Blood wood (Pterocarpus sp.), Mangarahara (Stereospermum euphoroides), Siris tree (Albizia lebbeck), Elephant ear tree (Enterolobium cyclocarpum).

During our fieldwork, Propithecus verreauxi was frequently observed in the morning hours near the crocodile enclosure further along the forest path. Occasional sightings also occurred along the wall at the entrance to Zazamalala and in the vicinity of the residence where we were staying. Between 09:00 and 11:00, feeding activity was most intense, with the sifakas consuming a variety of plant species and parts. Their diet included fruits of Buffalothorn (Ziziphus zizyphus) and the leaves of several tree species such as Sakoa (Sclerocarya birrea), Mahafangalitra (Stereospermum sp.), Robotsy (Senegalia rovumae), Hazomby (Hirtella thouarsiana), Mangarahara (Stereospermum euphoroides), and Siris tree (Albizia lebbeck). In addition to foliage, the sifakas regularly fed on the flowers of Manga (Mangifera indica) and both the leaves and flower buds of Kapok tree (Ceiba pentandra). Seed consumption was also noted in Siris tree (Albizia lebbeck), often alongside leaf intake.

No instances of drinking water were observed during the study period. Playful behaviour was occasionally recorded in the morning but was more frequently observed in the afternoon. This kind of behaviour was observed on various tree species, including Teak (Tectona grandis), Lamoty (Catunaregam spinosa), Rain tree (Albizia saman), Voafona (Antidesma madagascariensis), Blood wood (Pterocarpus sp.), and Siris tree (Albizia lebbeck). After feeding, morning hours were commonly spent basking in the sun. However, as temperatures increased past noon, the sifakas typically moved to shaded areas. By approximately 16:00, individuals were seen retreating to the upper canopy of trees such as Elephant Ear Tree (Enterolobium cyclocarpum) and, more frequently, in Rain tree (Albizia saman), where they remained for the rest of the day—most frequently in the garden or near the house.

Discussion

During our fieldwork, we observed that sifakas engaged in play not only in trees but also frequently on the ground, with terrestrial play, lasting longer than expected. Additionally, we noted a one-month-old infant clinging to its mother’s back on several occasions—a behaviour that previous studies report as typically occurring around three months of age. We also observed the infant attempting to climb independently in safe situations, most frequently in the afternoon hours, sometimes also in the morning, as the group was preparing to settle for the night.

The matriarchal structure of sifaka social groups was evident when a mother carrying an infant emitted a specific vocalisation, prompting an immediate response from two older individuals who approached her. A different type of vocalisation was recorded on a separate occasion when one of the sifakas became temporarily separated from the group. This call could best be described as a cry or a call for help. Throughout our observations, we successfully recorded daily vocalisations produced by the sifakas.

One interesting observation was that more than three sifakas were rarely seen occupying the same branch at the same time. When this did occur, it was typically only a brief moment during an individual’s movement or a jump to another branch.

We observed that sifakas frequently occupied a number of non-native tree species. This behaviour may be partially explained by the fact that the study was conducted during the dry season—or winter months—when many endemic plant species are not flowering, fruiting, or otherwise active as food sources.

We also observed an encounter between sifakas and brown lemurs (Eulemur rufifrons), during which the sifakas showed little to no interest. However, their behaviour markedly changed in the presence of humans, who are considered potential threats in their natural environment. In these instances, the sifakas exhibited notable curiosity and frequently approached to observe what was happening.

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