The critically endangered lemur is the first of its kind born in the UK this year, highlighting the park’s commitment to conservation.
A significant milestone in wildlife conservation has been achieved at Cotswold Wildlife Park, where the birth of a greater bamboo lemur has been celebrated. This rare event marks a hopeful development for one of the world’s most endangered primate species, with the young lemur born to parents Raphael and Bijou in Oxfordshire.
The unnamed and unsexed infant is the latest addition to the park’s Madagascar exhibit, where it has already begun exploring its surroundings and bonding with its mother. This momentous occasion is particularly noteworthy, as the birth of greater bamboo lemurs in captivity is exceedingly rare; Cotswold Wildlife Park is the only zoological collection in the UK—and one of just two worldwide—to achieve this breeding success this year.
Globally, there are only 36 greater bamboo lemurs in captivity, and they are classified as critically endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). With only seven other institutions housing these remarkable creatures, the birth at Cotswold Wildlife Park brings new hope for the species.
Jamie Craig, general manager of the park, emphasised the critical state of lemur species in Madagascar, noting that they face immense pressure from habitat destruction and an ever-increasing human population. “It is vital that we raise awareness for this unique group of primates before it is too late,” he stated.
The park is deeply committed to conservation efforts, actively participating in a European Breeding Programme designed to support the greater bamboo lemur population. This recent birth marks the fourth consecutive year that the park has successfully bred these primates, a testament to their dedication to the species’ survival.
In addition to housing these rare lemurs, Cotswold Wildlife Park funds a crucial conservation site in Madagascar and engages in various other projects through the Cotswold Wildlife Park Conservation Trust. Craig expressed pride in the park’s role, saying, “We are extremely privileged to keep both of these species at the park. They are extremely rare in captivity and serve as fantastic ambassadors for our fundraising efforts.”
As the baby lemur continues to grow and explore, its birth stands as a symbol of hope for the future of greater bamboo lemurs and highlights the importance of conservation efforts in protecting endangered species.
