_source

Very interesting and meaningful is also the name of the lemurs, which in its long form is called Lemuriformes. The Latin word Lemures can be translated with shadow spirits of the deceased, forma means form. Lemurs are shadow spirits of the deceased, a name that refers to the appearance of the animals. Large eyes in the striking faces were just as much a reason for this naming as the nightly activity of the lemurs. The dark glowing eyes of lemurs in dense forests can indeed quickly evoke such associations. Therefore, it is not surprising that at least some species of lemurs have a special meaning among the people of Madagascar. In former times the Indri was a holy animal in some Madagascan cultures, which worshipped the sun and was very often to be found on a seat in the sun. Also the Sifakas were considered as holy and were not hunted until recently. However, the Katta is the best known lemur species. The Katta is a symbol for Madagascar - with a little luck you will see the lemurs on one of your trips to the tropical landscapes of the island.