Ranomafana National Park

Wildlife & Animals

Expert

Philip is the author of the Insight Guide to Madagascar.

Ranomafana National Park is home to 13 species of lemur. Of these, seven are active by day and six by night. The most sought-after species is the golden bamboo lemur, whose global population of fewer than 1,000 individuals is centered on Ranomafana. Red-fronted brown lemur and red-bellied lemur are easily seen. The small-toothed sportive lemur, a nocturnal species, is often found during the day resting in the fork of a tree.

Golden
bamboo lemur Common

Red-fronted
brown lemur Common

Red-bellied
lemur Common

Greater
bamboo lemur Common

Grey
bamboo lemur Common

Giraffe-necked
weevil Common

Milne-Edwards’
sifaka Occasional

Rufous
mouse lemur Occasional

Parson's
chameleon Common

Satanic
leaf-tailed gecko Occasional

Painted
mantella Occasional

Fossa Very Rare

Spotted
fanaloka Rare

Ring-tailed
mongoose Rare

Wildlife Highlights

Ranomafana is home to three species of bamboo lemur: greater, grey and the critically endangered golden bamboo lemur. Bamboo lemurs are quite plain looking but their restricted habitat makes them a local specialty. The fanaloka, a genet-like small carnivore, is sometimes seen on night walks. Another special sight in the rainforest is the giraffe-necked weevil, a bright red bug whose hinged neck is twice as long as its body. The male weevils fight with their elongated necks, just like real giraffes.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Ranomafana can be visited at any time, but most people try to avoid the wettest months from January to March. Perhaps the best months are September and November. While this is partly during the Wet season (November to April), it is before the big rains arrive. Some animals, reptiles especially, are harder to see in the cold dry months from June to August. April and May are shoulder months and are a good choice too.