Experience a Close Encounter with critically endangered Lemurs at Wellington Zoo

Next week Wellington Zoo visitors will be able to get closer than ever to our new pair of male Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs. 17-year-old Lucky and 3-year-old son Ankari recently travelled to Wellington from Hamilton Zoo – after our two females, Fi and Flavia, moved to Melbourne Zoo earlier this year.

“It’s great to have Lucky and Ankari here at Wellington Zoo. They’ve settled in really well, and they both have lovely, gentle natures,” said Paul Horton, Life Sciences Manager.

Visitors can now see Lucky and Ankari in their new home – a refurbished habitat complete with newly planted tropical trees and foliage to reflect their native Madagascan flora.

They also have the opportunity to meet these charismatic primates up close in a new and intimate Close Encounter – and learn about their important roles as ambassadors for their species in the wild.

“Having Lucky and Ankari here is a great opportunity to talk to visitors about these beautiful and fascinating animals, which are critically endangered as a result of hunting and deforestation,” explained Paul.

“This year we began supporting the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group – a zoo-based conservation organisation that protects Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs, as well as other threatened wildlife in Madagascar.”

“10% from every Lemur Close Encounter goes directly to conservation programmes in the wild – like the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group – so visitors can feel empowered that by experiencing a Close Encounter with our Lemurs, they’re helping to protect their wild habitat.”

Lemur Close Encounters start Saturday 13 September, and run every day at 3.15pm. Each Close Encounter lasts for 30 minutes and is $95 per person.

Minimum age is 4 years old. Check availability and book online at wellingtonzoo.com.

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