The snout of these animals is noticeably shorter than that of other lemurs. The young are carried on their mother's back from the moment of birth. Lac Alaotra bamboo lemurs have been observed in social groups of between 3 and 5 individuals, although much larger associations are occasionally seen at the end of the wet season.
Groups contain a single adult male and are often territorial.
The typical mode of locomotion is vertical clinging and leaping, and there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that this subspecies is capable of swimming. Social bonds within the group are established and reinforced by grooming. The Lac Alaotra bamboo lemur's extremely restricted range makes it vulnerable to any habitat disturbance around Lac Alaotra. Unfortunately, this region is the largest area in Madagascar devoted to rice cultivation. Much of the lake margin has been converted to rice patties, and the reed beds, crucial for the survival of these animals are frequently harvested for the construction of mats, fish traps, screens, barriers and fencing.