Bespoke Tanzania Safaris

The Zanzibar Bushbaby, scientifically known as Paragalago zanzibaricus and also referred to as the Matundu Dwarf Galago or Udzungwa Bushbaby, is an endemic species to Tanzania, specifically found on the island of Zanzibar (Unguja) and parts of the Tanzanian mainland. Known locally as “Mbaki” or “Nyani Mdogo” in Swahili, these terms are general for small primates; there’s no unique name specifically for this species. This bushbaby represents a unique aspect of Tanzania’s biodiversity, showcasing the country’s role as a habitat for species found nowhere else in the world.

Population estimates for the Zanzibar Bushbaby are not well-documented due to their nocturnal habits and the dense, often inaccessible habitats they prefer. However, they are considered to have stable populations where their habitat remains intact. The species is listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN Red List, but like many species, they face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation for agriculture, logging, and urban expansion, particularly on Zanzibar where space is limited. Conservation initiatives in Tanzania, especially in Zanzibar, focus on protecting forest reserves, educating locals about wildlife, and managing human-wildlife interactions. Efforts like those by the Jozani Chwaka Bay Conservation Project indirectly benefit species like the Zanzibar Bushbaby by preserving their habitat.

COMMON NAME:Zanzibar Bushbaby, Matundu Dwarf Galago, Udzungwa Bushbaby

SWAHILI NAME:(Mbaki or Nyani Mdogo, general terms for bushbabies or small primates; no specific Swahili name known for this species)

SCIENTIFIC NAME:Paragalago zanzibaricus

TYPE: Mammal (Primate)

FOOD: Zanzibar Bushbabies are omnivorous, with their diet consisting of:

• Fruits
• Insects (a significant part)
• Tree gums
• Small vertebrates occasionally

Their dietary flexibility allows them to adapt to the resources available in their habitat.

HABITAT: They primarily inhabit:

• Tropical Coastal Forests
• Submontane Forests
• Lowland Tropical Forests
• Riverine Forests

They are found in Tanzania, including the island of Zanzibar and the mainland.

SIZE:

• Length: Body length is about 14 to 15 cm, with tails adding another 12 to 15 cm.
• Height: When standing on all fours, they measure around 10 to 15 cm at the shoulder.

AVERAGE LIFE SPAN IN THE NATURAL HABITAT: Their lifespan in the wild is not precisely known but is estimated to be around 10 to 15 years.

ACTIVE: They are nocturnal, active at night for foraging and sleeping during the day in tree hollows or nests.

GESTATION PERIOD: The gestation period is approximately 120 days.

SEXUAL DIMORPHISM: There is minimal sexual dimorphism:

• Males and females are similar in size, with little to no noticeable difference in appearance.

WEIGHT:

• Male and Female: They typically weigh around 150 grams (5.3 oz), with very little variation between the sexes.

SIZE COMPARISON TO A 6-FT MAN:

• Height: When standing on all fours, a Zanzibar Bushbaby would barely reach the ankle of a 6-foot man.
• Length: Stretched out, including the tail, they would be similar in length to a man’s foot.

Habitat of the Zanzibar Bushbaby:

Geographic Distribution:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby, scientifically known as Galago zanzibaricus, is native to the pristine forests and coastal regions of the Zanzibar archipelago, located off the eastern coast of Africa. Its habitat encompasses lush vegetation, ranging from tropical rainforests to woodland areas, providing a rich and diverse ecosystem for the species to thrive.

Arboreal Adaptations:

1. Agile Tree-Dweller:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby is well-adapted for life in the treetops. Its slender body, lightweight frame, and elongated limbs allow for agile movements through the dense foliage. Equipped with strong grasping hands and specialized pads on its fingers and toes, it can effortlessly leap from branch to branch, navigating its arboreal habitat with grace.

2. Nocturnal Lifestyle:

Like its bushbaby relatives, the Zanzibar Bushbaby is predominantly active during the night. With its large, round eyes specifically adapted for low-light conditions, it skillfully hunts for food and traverses the canopy under the moonlit sky, avoiding competition with diurnal species.

Physical Characteristics and Behavior:

Zanzibar Bushbabies are distinguished by:

• Size: They are small primates, with a body length of about 14 to 15 cm, and an additional 12 to 15 cm for the tail, making them one of the smaller bushbaby species.
• Fur: Their fur is soft and typically grey or brown with a white belly, which helps in camouflage.
• Eyes: Large, round eyes adapted for night vision, giving them a characteristic wide-eyed look.
• Ears: They have large, bat-like ears that are excellent for detecting prey and predators in the dark.
• Limbs: Long, agile limbs with specialized hands for gripping branches, enabling them to leap from tree to tree.
• Tail: Their tail is bushy, aiding in balance during their arboreal movements.

Petite Stature:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby is a small primate, measuring approximately 15 to 20 centimeters in length, with a bushy tail almost as long as its body. Its soft, dense fur exhibits shades of gray, brown, and white, providing effective camouflage within its forested surroundings.

Nocturnal Vocalizations:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby communicates through a repertoire of vocalizations that serve various purposes. From soft chirps and trills to piercing screams, these sounds allow for social interaction, territorial defense, and locating group members within the dense vegetation. Their vocal abilities are a testament to their complex social structure and communication skills.

Feeding Habits and Diet:

Varied Diet:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby is an omnivorous species, showcasing dietary flexibility in its natural habitat. Its diet primarily consists of fruits, insects, tree gums, and nectar by utilizing its nimble fingers and agile tongue.

Hunting Techniques:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby employs a combination of hunting techniques to secure its food sources. With its keen sense of hearing and exceptional agility, it effortlessly captures insects mid-air or forages for them among the leaves and bark of trees. Additionally, it uses its long fingers to pluck ripe fruits or extract nectar from flowering plants.

Ecological Role:

As an omnivorous species, the Zanzibar Bushbaby plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of its habitat. By consuming insects, it helps regulate their populations, contributing to the control of potential pests. Furthermore, as it feeds on fruits, it aids in seed dispersal, allowing for the germination and growth of diverse plant species within the forest ecosystem.

Conservation Status and Importance:

The Zanzibar Bushbaby faces various threats that jeopardize its existence. Habitat destruction resulting from deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion poses a significant challenge. Additionally, the illegal pet trade remains a persistent concern, leading to the capture and removal of these captivating creatures from their natural habitats.