Critically Endangered Lemur Born At Calgary Zoo

In a world where the black-and-white ruffed lemur teeters on the edge of extinction, the Calgary Zoo is taking a bold stand to save this magnificent primate from vanishing forever. With its striking appearance and captivating presence, the black-and-white ruffed lemur has earned its place among the 25 most endangered primates on the planet, primarily due to the loss of its natural habitat and relentless hunting. At the heart of the Calgary Zoo's mission lies the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a strategic initiative aimed at effectively managing and preserving populations of endangered species. Enter Eny and Menabe, a destined duo carefully selected to maximize the genetic diversity of the critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur population under human care. The journey to find a suitable partner for Menabe began in 2017 when he arrived at the Calgary Zoo. After an extensive search, hope shone brightly when Eny, a female with the ideal genetic profile, was discovered in an accredited zoo in the Czech Republic. In 2021, Eny made her grand entrance into Calgary, marking a significant milestone in the conservation efforts for this endangered species. And now, a ray of hope illuminates the Calgary Zoo's Wilder Institute as the first black-and-white ruffed lemur pup in over three decades enters the world. Born with an important role to play in the survival and well-being of its species, this little bundle of joy represents a glimmer of optimism in the face of adversity. Native to the island of Madagascar, black-and-white ruffed lemurs are on the verge of disappearing from their natural habitat, with an estimated population of fewer than 10,000 individuals. Shockingly, 98 percent of all lemurs in Madagascar face the looming threat of extinction, and more than 30 percent teeter on the precipice of immediate annihilation. While the public eagerly anticipates the opportunity to meet Eny, Menabe, and their precious offspring, the family will first spend cherished moments bonding behind the scenes. Rest assured, the Calgary Zoo will announce the pup's grand debut, allowing visitors to witness the awe-inspiring sight firsthand. In the meantime, the enchanting Land of Lemurs walkthrough will reopen to the public on May 19, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the world of these captivating creatures. With every birth, every partnership, and every conservation effort, the Calgary Zoo exemplifies the unwavering commitment to safeguarding the fragile threads that hold our planet's biodiversity together. The black-and-white ruffed lemur pup is a beacon of hope, a symbol that reminds us that with dedicated action and unwavering determination, we can make a difference in preserving the incredible tapestry of life that surrounds us. Together, we can ensure a future where the black-and-white ruffed lemur continues to enchant generations to come.