A Madagascan lemur points to the ‘benefits’ of nose-picking

Researchers studying a rare Madagascar lemur have observed the nocturnal creature picking its nose and eating mucus.

The Aye Aye, a cat-sized primate that lives in the forests of the Indian Ocean island, was known to hunt for insect grubs in hollow logs with its unusually long middle finger.

But for the first time, it’s been recorded sticking its finger up its nose and then licking it clean.

Similar behaviour has been seen in other primates, including humans, prompting scientists to suspect the unpalatable activity could have health benefits.

It’s thought nasal mucus may contain proteins beneficial to an animal’s immune system.