PAIGNTON ZOO’S LEMUR WOODS GETS EVEN MORE MAGICAL WITH NEW SPECIES ARRIVAL
Families seeking an unforgettable adventure can now experience something truly magical at Paignton Zoo, as three endangered crowned lemurs have joined the popular Lemur Woods exhibit – creating an even more immersive journey into the heart of Madagascar.
The trio of male crowned lemurs – aged one, three, and thirteen years – arrived from Newquay Zoo on 29 May and are settling beautifully into their new home alongside the existing bachelor group of ring-tailed lemurs. Combined with the red-ruffed lemurs in their own dedicated area of Lemur Woods, this exciting addition means visitors can now encounter three spectacular lemur species within one incredible exhibit.
Rob Haley, mammal keeper at Paignton Zoo, commented:
“Felix, Xavier, and Roger are very confident and curious so they have already integrated with their new neighbours extremely well. We will continue to supervise them, but so far all interactions have been extremely promising.”
The ring-tailed lemurs bring valuable experience in welcoming other species, having previously shared their woodland sanctuary with red-fronted lemurs Mango and Mandy. Mandy, who passed away in 2023, was believed to have been Europe’s oldest lemur at the remarkable age of 26.
Rob continued:
“Lemur Woods has always been one of our most beloved attractions – visitors love the thrill of walking through what feels like a real Madagascan forest, especially when the lemurs are free roaming around them. Adding crowned lemurs to this experience makes it even more special.”
The exhibit’s famous ‘wobbly bridge’ – a rope bridge spanning a dramatic gorge – adds an extra element of adventure. During free roaming periods, when families can encounter the primates up close, the immersive experience of exploring Madagascar’s forests whilst lemurs leap, climb and play around creates truly unforgettable moments.
Yet this experience is about more than just entertainment. Crowned lemurs are classified as Endangered, with fewer than 10,000 individuals remaining in Madagascar’s rapidly disappearing forests. These striking primates face serious threats from habitat destruction, making every individual precious for conservation efforts. By seeing these animals up close – free-roaming, leaping through branches and showing their natural behaviours – visitors develop a real emotional connection that turns casual observers into passionate conservation supporters.
Families planning a visit to Paignton Zoo can look forward to an unforgettable experience in Lemur Woods, where the magic of Madagascar comes alive. The combination of free roaming lemurs, the thrilling wobbly bridge, and the immersive forest setting creates memories that last a lifetime.
Book your tickets now to secure your family’s Madagascar adventure.
Please note that while the crowned and ring-tailed lemurs will not be free roaming for a few weeks. However, the red-ruffed lemurs will continue to be available for free roaming experiences. Free roaming only happens at select times on certain days, which can vary depending on visitor numbers. Visitors are advised to check with staff on arrival, or call ahead before their visit, to avoid disappointment.