Found only on the island of Madagascar, Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs are critically endangered.  But twins born at the Mogo Zoo on October 6 offer a glimmer of hope for the species.

The yet-to-be-named and sexed twins are being expertly cared for by their parents.  According to Animal Operations Manager Paul Whitehorn, “Tame’ and Itasi are being great parents, and the youngsters are becoming so active and a delight to watch.”  Though the twins are still nursing, they are already enjoying healthy fruits and veggies as part of their daily diet.

Unfortunately, the future for wild Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs is bleak.  Classified as Critically Endangered, these primates are threatened by habitat loss due to slash-and-burn agriculture, logging, and mining.  Additionally, they are hunted by poachers for their meat. 

Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs are the only diurnal primates to build nests.  Australia’s Mogo Zoo participates in the Species Management Program to ensure the genetic diversity of the captive population.

Photo Credit:  Mogo Zoo