The White-footed Sportive Lemur is endemic to a small area of south-east Madagascar. See the distribution map at IUCN. It is found in spiny forest. Because of its restricted range and loss of habitat it is classified as Endangered.

They are nocturnal and their diet consists largely of leaves. This type of diet has led to adaptations in their dietary tract such as an enlarged proximal colon.

The term "Sportive" comes from their adoption of a boxer-like stance when threatened.