Al Ain Zoo recently welcomed a family of Lemurs, in collaboration with Al Bustan Zoological Centre in Sharjah. The family of five are the first of their kind at the zoo.
These animals, native only to Madagascar, are classified as 'Endangered' on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species due to their dwindling numbers in the wild.
Commenting on the new additions, Muna Al Dhaheri, Chief of Conservation and Education, said, "The new addition of the Lemurs is testament to the zoo's commitment to implementing and developing conservation programmes. Native to Madagascar, their presence at Al Ain Zoo is important and highlights our dedication to areas such as captive management, conservation research, captive breeding, propagation, and the reintroduction of endangered species into the wild whenever possible." "Al Ain Zoo is committed to providing an unmatched experience and learning environment where visitors can connect with wildlife and nature in a fun and exciting setting. Visitors can interact with the animals in large open mixed exhibits that are close to their natural habitat. The zoo has prepared a custom-made enclosure for the Lemurs that resemble their natural habitat." Al Dhaheri also assured that the preparations helped environmentally strengthen the Lemurs, and that the Zoo is providing them with entertainment within the enclosures to suit their actual behaviour in the wild.
As a routine procedure, Al Ain Zoo places any new animals joining the zoo for a minimum of 30 days in quarantine. The primates were placed in quarantine for a period of 45 days to ensure their safety and rule out any medical problems and diseases.
Lemurs, known for their distinctive long tails coated with black spirals, have several shades of brown covering their thick fur. Unlike other tree-climbing primates, lemurs prefer spending their time playing and resting on the ground.