The total length of this primate is 55–67 cm (22–26 in), more than half of which is tail, and average weight is just under 1 kilogram (2.2 lb).

[5][6] This lemur has been reported from eight national parks (Ankarana, Baie de Baly, Mananara-Nord, Marojejy, Masoala, Sahamalaza-Iles Radama, Tsingy de Namoroka and Zahamena), two strict nature reserves (Tsaratanana and Zahamena), and eight special reserves (Ambatovaky, Analamerana, Anjanaharibe-Sud, Bemarivo, Kasijy, Maningoza, Manongarivo, and Marotandrano).

Females have a gestation period of 137 to 140 days and give birth, usually to one infant, from October through to January.

Bamboo species include Dendrocalamus giganteus, Ochlandra capitata and Phyllostachys aurea.

Burning the forest for livestock pasture is the major concern for this species as well as charcoal production and mining in Ankarana.