Yorkshire Wildlife Park's New Lemur Bindi Joins Conservation Efforts

Yorkshire Wildlife Park has welcomed Bindi, a 12-year-old crowned lemur, to its Lemur Woods habitat as part of ongoing efforts to protect this endangered species. The female lemur arrived from Suffolk last month and has been introduced to Loko, another crowned lemur at the park.

The introduction was arranged through the European Endangered Species Programme, which coordinates breeding of rare animals across zoos and wildlife parks to maintain healthy populations.

Endangered Status

Crowned lemurs face a precarious future with only an estimated 1,000-10,000 individuals remaining in their native Madagascar. They’re classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

“We are hopeful that they can contribute to vital conservation efforts to protect this incredible species,” said Charlotte MacDonald, Director of Animals at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

The main threats to crowned lemurs include habitat loss in Madagascar’s forests, hunting for food, and capture for the illegal pet trade.

Female Dominance

Bindi, described as having a “sassy personality,” is adapting well to her new surroundings despite this being her first experience living alongside other lemur species.

“Females are actually dominant in the lemur world, choosing who they mate with and chasing off any males that don’t interest them,” explained MacDonald. “However, Bindi seems to be bonding well with Loko.”

The Valentine’s Day introduction appears to be successful, with keepers reporting positive interactions between the pair.

Visitor Experience

Lemur Woods, a walk-through woodland reserve at the park, houses three different lemur species: crowned, ring-tailed, and red-bellied lemurs. The habitat allows visitors to observe these primates in a naturalistic setting.

Visitors can watch the lemurs jump through trees and learn more about them during ranger talks and feeding times. The park also offers special Animal Experiences for closer encounters with some of its rarest residents.

Conservation Work

Yorkshire Wildlife Park works with the Wildlife Foundation charity to raise funds for lemur conservation. In 2023, rangers from the park traveled to Madagascar to support the Helpsimus lemur project, contributing to conservation, research, and community initiatives.

Crowned lemurs are named for the distinctive crown-like pattern on their heads. Their striking appearance hasn’t prevented their population decline, making conservation breeding programs like the one at Yorkshire Wildlife Park increasingly important for the species’ survival.

FAQs

What are crowned lemurs and why are they endangered?

Crowned lemurs are primates native to Madagascar, recognizable by the crown-like pattern on their heads. They’re endangered with only 1,000-10,000 left in the wild due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade.

Where can visitors see Bindi at Yorkshire Wildlife Park?

Visitors can see Bindi in Lemur Woods, a walk-through woodland reserve that houses three species of lemurs: crowned, ring-tailed, and red-bellied lemurs.

How is Yorkshire Wildlife Park helping with lemur conservation?

The park participates in the European Endangered Species Programme for breeding, works with the Wildlife Foundation to raise funds for lemur conservation, and has sent rangers to Madagascar to support conservation projects.

What makes female lemurs different from males?

Female lemurs are dominant in their social structure, choosing their mates and chasing away unwanted males – unlike most mammal species where males are dominant.

Are there special programs to see the lemurs up close?

Yes, Yorkshire Wildlife Park offers Animal Experiences that provide unique opportunities to meet some of its rarest animals, including lemurs.

When did Bindi arrive at Yorkshire Wildlife Park?

Bindi arrived in February 2025, with her introduction to male lemur Loko occurring on Valentine’s Day.

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