Ring-Tailed Lemur Conservation

Ring-Tailed Lemur Conservation. . , Ring-tailed Lemurs (Lemur catta) are classified as near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (International Union for the Conservation of Nature). It is thought that this species has undergone a 25% reduction in the wild over the past 20 years. Up to 90% of Madagascar's forests have been lost and this type of major habitat loss may eventually lead to Ring-tailed Lemurs being classified as Endangered., Found only in the forests of South-Western Madagascar, Ring-tailed Lemurs are facing major habitat loss through de-forestation. They thrive in the forests found in Southern Madagascar, but these forests are being razed for lumber production and to make pasture for livestock. Their land is being destroyed at an alarming rate and their restricted geographical distribution makes it impossible for the Ring-tailed Lemur to adapt and survive this onslaught., Fortunately AZA Accredited Zoos, like the Cape May County Zoo, are doing their part to ensure the survival of these unique and beautiful primates. The AZA Species Survival Plan manages approximately 500 Ring-tailed Lemurs in accredited Zoos. These animals are scientifically paired and bred to produce a genetically diverse population. The Cape May County Zoo is proud to have had a very successful breeding program, adding several valuable animals every year to the captive population.