lemurs

Definition

A group of primates native only to the island of Madagascar, characterized by their large eyes and long, often ringed, tails.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'lemures,' which referred to malevolent ghosts or spirits of the dead. Early European explorers named them this due to their nocturnal habits, glowing eyes, and haunting vocalizations.

In the news

The article discusses the tragic death of four lemurs due to a human herpesvirus, specifically highlighting the risks of close contact with humans during activities like 'lemur yoga.'

4 lemurs die of human herpesvirus, including one that had been used in a 'lemur yoga' class

Live Science

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