What is a colugo?

A colugo, also known as a flying lemur, is a small arboreal mammal native to Southeast Asia. Despite its name, a colugo is not actually a lemur and does not have the ability to fly.

Colugos have a unique membrane of skin called a patagium that extends from their head to their tail and allows them to glide through the trees. They can glide up to 200 feet in a single leap! Their large eyes and sharp claws help them navigate and cling to tree trunks.

Colugos primarily feed on leaves and fruits, and have a slow metabolism which allows them to conserve energy. They are nocturnal and solitary animals, and can be found in tropical rainforests throughout Southeast Asia.

There are two species of colugo: the Sunda colugo and the Philippine colugo. Both species are considered threatened due to habitat loss caused by deforestation.