Microcebus berthae Elevation

Available data from the Aire Protégée Menabe Antimena (APMA) in the central Menabe region of western Madagascar indicate that the already critically endangered Madame Berthe's mouse lemur (Microcebus berthae) may be on the brink of extinction. The remaining potential habitat is shrinking rapidly, formerly stable populations have disappeared and there are no captive populations. While it is impossible to prove that a species is extinct as long as some potential habitat remains, only by capturing these small, elusive, nocturnal animals can it ultimately be determined whether sustainable populations still exist.

The aim of this project is therefore to initiate a systematic, protected area-wide survey of the remaining potential habitats of M. berthae in order to determine the distribution and abundance of the remaining population nuclei. Only by focussing parallel patrolling activities on these areas can the world's smallest primate be saved from extinction within the next 5 years or less.

Furthermore, our survey methods will provide additional information on the status of populations of other sympatric nocturnal lemur species (Lepilemur ruficaudatus (CR), Mirza coquereli (EN), Cheirogaleus medius (LC), Phaner pallescens and Microcebus murinus (LC)).