[4] Recent research has shown that C. medius hibernates (or aestivates), even though in the tropical winter of Madagascar, temperatures remain high.

[7] Like other fat-tailed lemurs, C. medius is able to store fat in its tail, and this provides a source of energy during its period of dormancy.

This level of high activity from the lemurs is linked to higher reproduction rates according to Dr.

It was described by taxonomist Colin Groves as having a pelage coloration that is dark dorsally and gray ventrally, with a vaguely expressed dorsal stripe running down the back, a relatively short white median facial stripe, and black eye-rings.

[10][11] This species is nocturnal, with a diet of insects, other small animals, fruits and flowers.