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What is an Aye-Aye?

By SamK on February 20, 2024
Category(s)
Aye-Aye

Aye-Aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis) is a unique and fascinating creature that belongs to the primate family. Here's a brief classification list of the Aye-Aye:

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Primates
Family: Daubentoniidae
Genus: Daubentonia
Species: D. madagascariensis

Native to Madagascar, the Aye-Aye is known for its distinctive physical characteristics, including large eyes, slender fingers, and particularly the long middle finger which it uses to extract insects from tree bark. 

This nocturnal animal is often misunderstood and is considered by some local populations as an omen of bad luck, contributing to its endangered status. Despite its eerie appearance, the Aye-Aye plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as a seed disperser and pest controller.