Galago (Bushbaby) (Galago moholi)

MammalPrimateNocturnal

Overview

Galagos — better known as bushbabies — are small, nocturnal African primates of the family Galagidae, with large round eyes, big mobile ears, soft fur, and long powerful hind legs. The Mohol bushbaby (Galago moholi), shown here, is a typical small species. Like lemurs and lorises, galagos belong to the more “primitive” branch of primates, and they are superbly adapted to a life of leaping through trees in the dark.

Bushbabies likely owe their name to their loud, wailing calls, which can sound eerily like a crying human infant echoing through the African night.

Note: “galago” covers many species of different sizes; details here use the Mohol bushbaby as a reference. Treat general statements as approximate and verify against authoritative sources.

Habitat & Range

Galagos are found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, in habitats from savanna woodland and acacia scrub to dense forest, depending on the species. The Mohol bushbaby favours drier savanna woodlands of southern Africa, sheltering by day in tree hollows, dense foliage, or nests and emerging at night to feed.

Diet

Galagos are omnivores whose diet centres on insects and tree gum (sap), with the balance varying by species and season; they also take fruit, nectar, and small animals. The Mohol bushbaby relies heavily on acacia gum and on insects it snatches with quick, accurate grabs, often catching them in mid-air.

Behavior

Galagos are spectacular leapers, springing many times their body length between branches with their long, muscular hind legs and landing precisely thanks to keen night vision and large, independently swivelling ears. They are mostly active alone at night but maintain social networks through scent (including a habit of “urine-washing” their hands and feet) and a rich variety of calls. The loud cries that carry through the dark give the bushbaby its name.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Bushbabies are widespread and many species remain common, though some forest specialists are less well known and depend on intact habitat. They are sometimes captured for the pet trade, which is discouraged given their specialised nocturnal, active lifestyle. Ecologically they help control insects and pollinate or disperse some plants. Consult authoritative sources for species-specific status.

More photos of the galago (bushbaby)