Silky sifaka essay

They generally prefer to live at high elevations, greater than 2,625 ft (800 m). However, they can be found at elevations from 984 to 6,152 ft (300–1875 m). The silky sifaka was once considered to be a subspecies of the diademed sifaka ( Propithecus diadema ).

While silky sifakas have not been studied as extensively as other members of the genus Propithecus, immigration and emigration of adult males has been observed. Observers have yet to see females change groups; however, female-based dispersal in this species is probably similar to that of other sifaka species.

Generally, all sifakas share a similar body shape, with long tails and legs relative to their torso and arms. Their long strong legs allow them to cling to vertical supports, such as tree trunks, and leap up to 30 ft (9 m) while traveling among the trees.

Sifakas may balance the need for predator protection with limited feeding competition by keeping group size small and shifting the organization of the group throughout the year to enhance mating opportunities. Like most sifakas, the silky sifaka has many forms of communication. Of them all, auditory communication is the most studied form.