Ring-tailed lemurs live in large troops, usually comprising more males than females. The females are the dominant members of the troop, however. This rank in the troop hierarchy enables females to find food before males. Also, they can choose whichever male they prefer. Scent marking among the lemurs is one of the ways they communicate. They rub a scent gland, located just above the wrist, against branches and trunks. They are often seen rubbing their tails and then flicking them to spread the scent.

Infants are cared for not only by parents but by the entire troop.
When the sun shines, ring-tailed lemurs sit facing the sun and spread their arms and legs for warmth.