SIFAKA  , apparently the name of certain large Malagasy lemurs nearly allied to the

INDRI (q.v.) but distinguished by their long tails, and hence referred to a genus apart—Propithecus, of which three species, with several local races, are recognized . Sifakas are very variable in colouring, but always show a large amount of white . They associate in parties and are mainly arboreal, leaping from bough to bough with an agility that suggests flying through the air . When on the ground, to pass from one clump of trees to another, they do not run on all fours, but stand erect, The Crowned Sifaka (Propithecus diadema coronatus) . From Milne-Edwards and Grandidier . and throwing their arms above their heads, progress by a series of short jumps, producing an effect which is described by travellers as exceedingly ludicrous . They are not nocturnal, but most active in the morning and evening, remaining seated or curled up among the branches during the heat of the day . In disposition they are quiet and gentle, and do not show much intelligence; they are also less noisy than the true lemurs, only when alarmed or angered making a noise which has been compared to the clucking of a fowl . Like all their kindred they produce only one offspring at a birth (see PRIMATES) . (R .