The Misleading Name: Flying Lemurs Cannot Truly Fly
Despite its misleading name, the 'Flying Lemur' doesn't fly. Instead it glides from tree to tree using a thin membrane of skin stretched between its limbs.
The Colugo, often called the “Flying Lemur,” is a fascinating yet frequently overlooked member of the animal kingdom. Despite its name, this creature neither flies nor is it a lemur. The misleading terminology might suggest that the Colugo possesses extraordinary airborne capabilities similar to flying squirrels or bats. However, it does not achieve actual flight; instead, it glides or soars through the air.
Unique Locomotion
The Colugo’s unique ability to glide can be attributed to its patagium—an expansive and thin sheet of skin that extends from its neck and connects along all four limbs down to its tail. This creates a wing-like surface area that allows them to glide through their environment. Gliding occurs when an animal jumps from a high area—usually a tree—and descends at an angle less steep than 45 degrees relative to the ground. This slows their fall rate and allows for extended airborne duration.
Habitat and Diet
Colugos are primarily found in Southeast Asia, dwelling mainly in tropical rainforests. They seamlessly glide across vast distances of up to 100 meters between trees for food. Their diet consists primarily of leaves, shoots, flowers, and sap.
Classification
Due to significant morphological and genetic differences with lemurs—primates indigenous only to Madagascar—colugos are grouped separately under the order Dermoptera. This classification shatters any theories linking them closely with primates. Therefore, the title “flying lemur” is misleading on both accounts but adds an appealing touch of novelty and intrigue around these captivating creatures.
Evolutionary Significance
The Colugo is also a prime example of parallel evolution—the independent evolution of similar features in species from different periods or epochs in time. Although colugos evolved separately, they developed features and methods resembling those of other “flighted” creatures.
In summary, while “flying lemur” may be misleading, it is an intriguing label for these remarkable animals whose accurate representation would otherwise likely keep them relegated to obscurity. The Colugo’s unique adaptations and evolutionary significance make it a noteworthy subject within the animal kingdom.