Lemurs

Quick Facts
Habitat:
Forests and Rainforests of Madagascar
Number of Lemur Exhibits:
5
Way of Communicating
Scent Marking and Loud Barking

Black and White Lemurs

Varecia variegata variegata

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

Red Ruffed Lemurs

Varecia rubra

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

Ring-Tailed Lemurs

Lemur catta

Conservation Status: Endangered

Our Lemurs

There are multiple lemur exhibits spread throughout the zoo. Guests can see our Black and White Ruffed Lemurs, a small family of Red Ruffed Lemurs, and a pair of Ring-Tailed Lemurs along the path behind our Storybook Carousel. We also have a second Red Ruffed Lemur exhibit and a Ring-Tailed Lemur exhibit across from our Dromedary Camel exhibit. Each year our lemur families continue to grow and we are proud of the work we have accomplished to preserve these critically endangered and very special animals!

In the Wild

The unique lemur species of today were able to evolve due to their isolation on the island of Madagascar. The conservation status of all lemur species ranges from vulnerable to critically endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and hunting. Lemur habitats are often cut down for illegal logging and forest clearing for agriculture and mining. Lemurs also are at risk from invasive species such as dogs and cats that have been introduced by humans. To save lemurs, what is left of their forest habitat needs to be protected.

Fun Facts

  • The name lemur is from the Latin word lemurs, meaning "spirits of the dead." This name was selected for the lemur's silent movement.
  • Black-and-white ruffed lemurs are one of the largest pollinators in the world! They feed on flower nectar and disperse the pollen that ends up on their nose.
  • The red ruffed lemur has a special claw on its second toe for grooming.
  • Ring-tailed lemurs like to sunbathe. When sunbathing, they sit up straight, with their stomachs facing the sun.