Lemur arrivals add to brood as Stirling park helps with conservation efforts

The three pups are part of plans to maintain the species, with only 1000 to 10,000 individuals remaining in the wild.

A trio of endangered lemurs have perched up at Blair Drummond Safari Park as the local attraction helps ensure the animals stay safe for years to come.

The adorable black-and-white ruffed lemur pups have been named Domino, Zero and Ebony in a nod to their striking black-and-white markings, and were born to experienced parents Cali and Páraic.

Cali has now given birth to 11 pups during her time at the Stirling park, with the latest arrivals part of conservation efforts to protect the species, with only 1000 to 10,000 individuals remaining in the wild.

The pups are staying close to their mum for now, with visitors able to see them climbing around in their indoor habitat.

As their confidence grows, they will join the other occupants of the park’s Lemur Land section and then move on to other conservation-led collections to continue the global breeding programme designed to protect the species long-term.

Native to Madagascar, black-and-white ruffed lemurs are among the world’s most threatened primates.

Famous for their striking markings and powerful voices – the second loudest of any primate after howler monkeys – their calls can travel long distances through the forest canopy.

But the lemurs have faced threats, particularly from the illegal pet trade and also the impact of widespread habitat loss caused by deforestation for agriculture, logging and mining.

As a result, the species has been pushed to the brink in securing its long-term future.

Blair Drummond now plays an active role as part of the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme (EEP) for this species, helping to build a healthy ‘insurance population’ in zoos across Europe.

The new arrivals are the fourth litter born at the park, with several of their older siblings now living in other leading zoological collections across the UK.

Lemur Land team leader, Lesley Grant, said: “It’s always incredibly special to welcome new arrivals but knowing just how vulnerable this species is, makes these births even more meaningful.

“Cali is a brilliant mum, and it’s fantastic to see the pups doing so well.

“Every birth is an important step in helping to secure the future of these amazing animals.”