Avahi

/əˈvɑː.hi/ noun

Definition

A small, nocturnal lemur found only in Madagascar with a round head, large eyes, and a preference for living in family groups.

Etymology

From Malagasy 'avahi,' the native name for this lemur species in Madagascar. The word was adopted into scientific nomenclature in the 19th century when zoologists cataloging Madagascar's unique fauna.

Kelly Says

The avahi is one of the only monogamous primates on Earth, with mated pairs performing haunting duets at night that sound like human wailing—locals call it the 'ghost of the forest.'

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