Dissertation Research: A Socioecological Study of the BlackLemur (Lemur macaco macaco) in Northwestern Madagascar

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The primary objective of this proposal is to begin to determine the degree of intra-specific variability in the social behavior of the black lemur (Lemur macaco macaco) of northwestern Madagascar. There is some information on the behavioral characteristics of this species. Yet, it is well known from studies of other nonhuman primates that great variability may be encountered between conspecific populations due to ecological and other causes. The PIs will begin to assess the level of behavioral variability by observing four groups over the course of eighteen months. As two of the populations reside in relatively undisturbed areas and two in areas significantly disrupted by human activity, there will be ample opportunity to observe the range of black lemur behavior. The project will aim to document the responses to habitat disturbance. Most specifically, disturbance leads to an altered distribution of food sources, which in turn may affect ranging patterns and male migrations between groups. The latter will also be documented in reference to mating patterns. As female lemurs dominate males, the effects of migration on female choice of mates and other aspects of mating strategies will be of interest.