Black & White Ruffed Lemur (Varecia variegata variegata)

Fact File:

• Often mistaken for monkeys, lemurs are actually more primitive primates that are found only on the island of Madagascar.
  
  
• Lemurs are much less intelligent than monkeys, and have a wet nose like a dog.
  
  
• There are at least 60 different species, including the black and white ruff.
  
  
• Black and white ruffed lemurs live in small groups in the rainforests of Madagascar, and use loud calls to keep in touch with each other.
  
  
• Lemurs eat fruit and leaves.
  
  
• Lemur mothers usually have two or three babies at once.

Why are Lemurs endangered?

Many species of lemur are currently threatened with extinction. This is mainly due to habitat loss, as the population of Madagascar is increasing rapidly. As cities expand, more land is needed for agriculture so the rainforest is cleared to provide the space. Trees are also logged to provide wood for paper and building materials.

Lemurs are also under threat from the illegal pet trade. Poachers will take the young from a family of lemurs, and sell them to pet traders. Sadly, many of the young lemurs do not survive.

How can we help?

Most wood products in the UK are sourced from logging companies in the northern hemisphere, but make sure the products you buy are sustainably logged. Look out for the logo of the Forestry Stewardship Council, on everything from furniture to toilet paper, so that you know you are not contributing to deforestation.

The lemurs at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm are called Lenny and Lorna. It is thought that Lorna is currently pregnant and due to give birth this summer (2009); so hopefully we can help the species to thrive here for future generations.