Who eats aye-ayes? This has been the question of many since scientists began to research on the Aye-Aye scientifically referred to as Daubentonia madagascariensis.
Aye-Aye is a primate found in Madagascar, it is known for its unique appearance and peculiar feeding habit. It has bony mid finger, bat like ears, bulky eyes, rough fur and it is the largest nocturnal primate in the world.
Here we will discuss the predators that pose as potential threat to the Aye-Aye and you will also discover who eats the Aye-ayes.
Who Eats Aye-Ayes?
Aye Ayes are arboreal and nocturnal in nature so they do not have much predators. However, below are the few threats they face in the wild.
1. Fossa
Fossa scientifically known as Cryptoprocta ferox, is the biggest predator found in Madagascar. It is a carnivorous mammal that feeds on diverse preys including the Aye-Aye.
They only prey on the Aye-Aye if they come into an encounter with them. However, these encounters are very rare because Aye-Aye are nocturnal in nature.
2. Humans
Human activities have been the greatest threat to their existence. Some communities in Madagascar kill Aye-Aye because of the superstitions, they believe the Aye Ayes are omen of bad-luck and are also seen as pest to crops so these led to their killings and destruction of their habitat. This has greatly reduced their population.
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3. Birds
Larger Birds like hawks and owl may prey on smaller and younger Aye-Ayes. These birds capture Aye-Ayes when they encounter them in their hiding places under the trees canopies during their night foraging.
Conservation Plans
It is good to note that the Aye-Ayes are mainly threatened by human activities and superstitions, which has led to their killings and the destruction of their habitat.
Efforts are made to conserve these endangered primates; awareness are being raised about their benefits in the ecosystem. Killings of Aye-Ayes and the destruction of their habitat is greatly discouraged.