Galagos are small, nocturnal primates native to sub-Saharan Africa. They belong to the family Galagidae and are known for their large eyes, which are adapted for night vision, and their bat-like ears that help them detect insects in the dark.
These primates are incredibly agile and have long hind legs and tails that aid in their remarkable jumping ability (see video bellow). They typically measure around 23 to 34 cm (9 to 13 inches) in length and weigh between 720 to 820 grams (1.5 to 1.8 pounds). Their diet mainly consists of tree gum, flowers, leaves, and insects.
Soeme galago species are known for their distinctive cries, which is one reason they are called "bush babies." They are generally harmless but should never be kept as pets! Their evolutionary proximity to humans makes them a potential source of zoonotic diseases. Although most species are not listed as endangered in the IUCN Red List, we have very limited knowledge about the population trends for most species, and recent genetic studies suggest that the species diversity has been underestimated in the group due to their cryptic morphology and elusive behavior.
Nature PBS (we should tell them that galagos are not primitive apes!)
Some galagos are extremelly small. The thomas dwarf galago (Galagoides thomasi) is among one of the smallest primates, weighting only 60 grams! Video by Joel Sartori (National Geographic)
Penna and Pozzi 2024: A recent review of the systematics and diversity of galagos. Article Link.
Penna et al., 2024: Galagos enter the museomics era. Article Link.
Masters et al., 2016: Dwarf galagos are not monophyletic, described a new genus. Article Link.
Pozzi et al., 2014: Elucidating the phylogenetic relationship within African Galagids. Article Link.
Seiffert et al., 2003: the fossil record and the divergence between galagos and lorises. Article Link.
Bearder et al., 1995: The importance of loud calls in Galago mate recognition. Article Link.
Wildsolutions maintains a comprehensive catalog of vocal profiles. Article Link.
In 2019, the IUCN primate specialist group updated its species distribution maps. Article Link.
Primates (Order). Article Link.
Galagos and Lesser Bushbabies. Article Link.
Prince Demidoff's bushbaby (Galago demidoff). Article Link.