SIFAKA

(Propithecus), either of two species of arboreal primates, family Indriidae, found in coastal Madagascan forests. Sifakas are about 1 m (3 feet) long, roughly half of the length being tail. They have small heads, large eyes, and large ears partially hidden in their long, silky fur. Colour varies both in and between species but is usually white with darker markings. Diurnal vegetarians, sifakas live in family groups. They can leap 910 m (3033 feet) from tree to tree. One young, usually, is born after about five months' gestation. Verreaux's sifaka (P. verreauxi) is listed as critically endangered and under threat of extinction in the Red Data Book.