Wildlife of Madagascar

Madagascar’s wildlife is like no other on Earth.

This island, isolated in the Indian Ocean, is the fourth largest in the world and hosts wildlife so rich and diverse that over 90% of it is found nowhere else. Here, inquisitive lemurs leap from tree to tree while vibrantly coloured chameleons blend seamlessly into their natural surroundings, stealthily moving through dense vegetation.

Madagascar is a treasure trove of endemic species and one of the most fascinating destinations on the planet for nature lovers and adventurers.

Curious about the creatures you might meet in Madagascar? Join us on a journey through the island’s unique biodiversity, and catch a glimpse of the adventure that awaits when you explore Madagascar with TourCompass.

What makes Madagascar’s wildlife special?

The wildlife in Madagascar is a living testament to the island’s long evolution in isolation from the mainland.

Since the island separated from the African continent about 160 million years ago, Madagascar has developed a uniquely extraordinary ecosystem, resulting in a truly exceptional biodiversity.

Over 90% of Madagascar’s reptiles and mammals are found only here, making the island the sole natural home to all lemur species. Additionally, it hosts about half of all the world’s chameleon species and 6% of the world’s frogs.

In total, Madagascar today is home to over 200,000 different animal species, with around 150,000 being endemic – that is, species found only in this one place.

Due to its geographical isolation in the Indian Ocean, large African animals like lions, elephants, and wildebeests are absent from Madagascar.

What animals can you see in Madagascar?

Madagascar is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and home to many rare and endemic animal species. We have compiled a list of 7 fascinating animals you might be lucky enough to encounter during your visit to the island.

Lemurs

Lemurs are undoubtedly the most renowned animal species in Madagascar. These primates, belonging to the group of prosimians, are found naturally only in Madagascar and some nearby islands, making them one of the island’s most iconic species.

The ancestors of the lemur species found in Madagascar today likely arrived around 65 million years ago, possibly by rafting across the ocean on floating logs from the African mainland to this remote island. Today, there are over 100 different species of lemurs, so your chances of encountering them on your tour of the island are quite high.

One of the most famous lemur species is the ring-tailed lemur, easily recognisable by its distinctive black-and-white tail, which has become a symbol of Madagascar.

Additionally, you might also spot the Indri lemur, known for its unique, melodious call, or, with luck, the mouse lemur, the smallest species of lemur, which weighs a mere 30 grams.

The greater vasa parrot (Coracopsis vasa)

The appearance of the greater vasa parrot is quite different from what we usually associate with parrots. Unlike other parrot species, the vasa parrot doesn’t boast a vibrant plumage but is instead cloaked in discreet shades of grey, black, and brown.

Like other parrot species, the greater vasa parrot is inherently social and often gathers in large flocks. However, it distinguishes itself through its unique breeding behaviour, as the female parrot mates with multiple males during the breeding season, leading to offspring that may have different fathers.

The population of the greater vasa parrot is in decline, primarily because hunting them is legal in Madagascar due to their tendency to feed on local crops.

The panther chameleon (Furcifer pardalis)

Originally hailing from Madagascar, the panther chameleon is one of the largest chameleon species worldwide. Typically measuring between 43 and 50 cm in length, it is about the size of a house cat.

Just like other chameleons, the panther chameleon can swiftly change its colours to blend in with its surroundings. However, the panther chameleon doesn’t only change its colours to camouflage itself from potential predators. The colour change is also influenced by other factors such as varying temperatures and the chameleon’s health.

The panther chameleon’s colour palette includes bright hues like orange, red, dark green, and turquoise. These vibrant colours combine in a variety of patterns with spots and stripes, making the chameleon a captivating sight.

Tomato frog (Dyscophus)

The tomato frog, named for its brilliant red hue, is one of Madagascar’s most distinctive amphibians and exclusively found here. Despite its name, only the female frog exhibits the intense red colour, while the male’s colour is more of a brown-orange.

The red colour serves as a warning to other predators. If the colour alone isn’t enough to deter potential predators, the tomato frog can puff itself up and excrete a toxic substance from its skin when it feels stressed or threatened.

The tomato frog resides in Madagascar’s forests, spending most of its time burrowed in mud and leaves. However, during the evening, the frog emerges from its hiding place, and you can hear its distinctive sounds around this time.

Blue coua (Coua caerulea)

The blue coua, part of the cuckoo family, is one of Madagascar’s endemic bird species. Known for its characteristic deep blue colour, the bird is a striking sight when perched among the green treetops.

Unlike other cuckoos, which lay their eggs in other birds’ nests and leave them to hatch, the blue coua builds its own nest and incubates its own eggs.

The bird’s stunning blue plumage, unfortunately, has made it a coveted prize among hunters. Sadly, this beautiful bird is endangered, and its population is in decline.

Ploughshare tortoise (Astrochelys yniphora)

The ploughshare tortoise is widely recognised as one of the world’s most endangered tortoise species and is currently only found in the northern part of Madagascar. It is estimated that fewer than 100 ploughshare tortoises remain in the wild, putting them at great risk of extinction.

This tortoise species has a high-domed shell that features beautiful brown and yellow tones. The bottom part of its shell extends into an elongated projection that resembles a plough, which is how the tortoise got its unique name.

The ploughshare tortoise is herbivorous, primarily consuming leaves, grasses, and fruits. It favours grassy areas where it can find shelter in dense shrubbery.

Fossa

The fossa is Madagascar’s largest predator and one of the island’s most fascinating and elusive creatures. Belonging to the family of the mongoose, it has a sleek body, golden-brown fur, and a long tail, giving it a cat-like appearance – although it is not related to cats.

Being endemic, the fossa is found only in Madagascar’s wilds, hunting everything from small rodents to lemurs, its preferred prey. Its sharp claws also make the fossa an adept climber, capable of leaping gracefully from branch to branch. Although it spends much of its time in trees, it is also skilled at moving on the ground.

The fossa is primarily nocturnal but can sometimes hunt during the day. Despite its size and strength, it is very shy, and spotting one requires both luck and patience.

Frequently asked questions about wildlife in Madagascar

Where can you experience wildlife in Madagascar?

Madagascar’s national parks are among the best places to experience the island’s fascinating wildlife. These parks are protected areas that ensure the survival of Madagascar’s unique wildlife, which would otherwise be threatened by activities such as deforestation, leading to the loss of their natural habitats.

Nearly 25% of Madagascar’s national land is dedicated to protected areas, highlighting the country’s efforts to preserve its ecosystems and species.

When is the best time to experience Madagascar’s wildlife?

The best time depends on which animals you wish to see.

Wildlife in Madagascar can be experienced year-round, but some months offer particularly good opportunities to spot specific species:

• May to October (dry season):
  This is an ideal time to see playful lemur infants, as many lemurs give birth during this period. You can also spot humpback whales along the coast between June and September.
• November to April (wet season):
  In the rainy season, wildlife becomes more active. Colourful chameleons emerge, and many bird species arrive on the island to breed, making it a fantastic time for bird enthusiasts.

Read more about the best time to tour Madagascar.

What is the best way to experience wildlife?

Undoubtedly, the best way to experience wildlife is on a safari in Madagascar. When you tour with TourCompass, we take you to some of the island’s 19 national parks. Although it isn’t the classic safari as one might know from game drives in, for example, Tanzania or Kenya, it is conducted on foot, allowing you to explore the wildlife up close. You’ll be accompanied by skilled, local guides who know both the animals and the areas, ensuring you have the best opportunities to experience the island’s exciting species in their natural habitats.

Fancy experiencing the wildlife of Madagascar?

If you’re looking to encounter rare and unique species while surrounded by stunning landscapes, visiting Madagascar will surely not disappoint.

We offer a variety of tours to Madagascar, providing you the opportunity to explore the island’s hidden gems.

Need guidance in selecting the right tour? Our travel specialists are ready to assist you in finding the tour that perfectly aligns with your desires.

We’re with you all the way!

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller