Naples Zoo is celebrating the arrival of two endangered ring-tailed lemur babies, born on March 25, 2025, to parents PJ and Julien. This marks the second successful birth for the ring-tailed lemur pair at the Naples Zoo. They welcomed their first baby, Velo, just a year ago.
The parents were matched through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a program that supports the long-term survival of endangered species by promoting genetic diversity and healthy populations in human care.
Ring-tailed lemurs are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Over the past 30 years, their population has declined by more than 50%, largely due to habitat loss and deforestation in their native Madagascar. Although they are still found in several protected areas in Southern Madagascar, these primates remain among the most endangered mammals on Earth.
At Naples Zoo, PJ is proving once again to be an exceptional and attentive mother. Big brother Velo is adjusting well to his new role, and all three youngsters can be spotted with their troop on the popular Primate Expedition Cruise—a guest favorite at the zoo.
Visitors are encouraged to come see the lemur family and witness the playful energy of the new arrivals. The zoo will also be hosting a special gender reveal next week. Stay tuned to Naples Zoo’s social media channels for the big announcement!
For more information, visit napleszoo.org or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Naples Zoo is open daily from 9:00 to 4:30 and is located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road across from the Coastland Center mall.