The "lesser" part only indicates size – no one who is familiar with these nocturnal lemurs would, well, belittle them. These tiny balls of energy are one of the most widespread and adaptable of all lemurs, and just as likely to be sighted in gardens and near roadways as they are in the forests.

The Basics

Scientific name	Microcebus murinus
Diet:	Fruit, flowers, leaves, insects
Size:	Up to about 3 ounces – roughly the weight of half a stick of butter
Range:	Primarily southwestern Madagascar
Habitat:	Dry deciduous forest
Group living:	Solitary nighttime foragers who sleep in groups during the day
Reproduction:	Usually twins
Conservation status:	Lower risk
Threats:	Habitat loss

Mastering Their Domain

• This mouse lemur stores fat in its tail, and when food is scarce, it converts the fat to energy.
  
• During the Madagascar dry season (spring to early fall), females slow down their activity and may remain dormant within tree hole nests for several months. This season of “torpor” conserves energy. Males are much more active than females during the period.
  
• Females are dominant over males and choose their mates.