Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the aye-aye in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the aye-aye in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the aye-aye in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the aye-aye’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Aye-aye
Scientific name: Daubentonia madagascariensis
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: DAUBENTONIIDAE
Group: Mammals
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 10 m
Rut period: January to December
Gestation: 45 à 50 jours
Births: January to December
Habitat:
Tropical rainforests
Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.
Identification and description:
The Aye-aye is a nocturnal lemur endemic to Madagascar, known for its strange appearance, notably its extremely long and thin middle finger which it uses to extract insects and larvae from tree trunks. It is a shy and secretive animal, primarily living in the tropical forests of the island. Due to its unique feeding method, it is sometimes viewed as an omen of misfortune by local populations, though its ecological role in maintaining forest balance is crucial. The Aye-aye is listed as vulnerable due to deforestation and cultural beliefs surrounding it.
Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Photograph the Aye-aye at night using a wide-aperture lens to capture sharp images despite the low light. Use a telephoto lens to avoid disturbing the animal, as it is very shy. Moments when it is foraging or climbing trees are particularly interesting. Patience is key, as the Aye-aye is a stealthy animal and difficult to spot.
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