Marwell Zoo in Hampshire has opened an exciting new exhibit which allows visitors to walk through the lemur enclosure and watch them close up, like never before.
The new Lemur Loop experience has both indoor and outdoor sections and immerses visitors into a densely planted lemur environment which aims to closely resemble their natural habitat.
The exhibit is home to four different species of lemur including the critically endangered Alaotran gentle lemur, black-and white-ruffed lemur, the endangered crowned lemur and the ring-tailed lemur. Also joining the lemurs in the new enclosure are two endangered green peafowl, a new species for Marwell.
The Madagascan lemurs have spent the past few weeks settling into their new environment and getting used to people walking alongside them as they climb and leap around. The groups of lemurs have been sharing their space with members of staff who spent increasing amounts of time in their enclosures to ‘test the waters’.
Animal Collection Manager Ross Brown and his team have been taking a close look at the lemurs’ diets as the different sub-species have distinct requirements. They have also been careful to design the enclosure in a way that promotes natural behaviours.
Zoo staff will be on hand every day until 4pm to teach groups about the loveable lemur troop and their habitats in the ‘Evolution Hub’; from learning about the story of lemur evolution and diversity, to taking part in observation and skills-based activities.
For more information on visiting Marwell Zoo go to www.marwell.org.uk
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