Duke Lemur Center facts for kids
The Duke Lemur Center is a special place in Durham, North Carolina. It is part of Duke University. This center is like a big home for many different kinds of lemurs and lorises. It covers about 85 acres of land. It is the largest place in the world dedicated to these amazing animals.
The center is home to around 10 different species of lemurs and lorises. Scientists at the center study these animals to learn more about them. They do this research in a way that does not harm the animals. The Duke Lemur Center is open for people to visit. You need to book a tour ahead of time to see the animals.
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What is the Duke Lemur Center?
The Duke Lemur Center is a special sanctuary for lemurs and lorises. These animals are primates, like monkeys and apes, but they are found only on the island of Madagascar and in parts of Southeast Asia. The center helps protect these animals, many of which are endangered in the wild.
Why are Lemurs and Lorises Important?
Lemurs and lorises are unique animals. They help scientists understand more about how primates evolved. By studying them, researchers can also learn how to protect these animals in their natural homes. The center's work helps keep these species from disappearing forever.
How Does the Center Help Animals?
The Duke Lemur Center focuses on several key areas to help lemurs and lorises:
- Conservation: They work to protect these animals and their habitats in the wild.
- Research: Scientists study their behavior, health, and how they live.
- Education: The center teaches people about these animals and why they are important.
- Breeding: They have successful breeding programs to help increase the numbers of endangered species.
Famous Residents: Jovian the Lemur
One of the most famous lemurs who lived at the Duke Lemur Center was named Jovian. He was a sifaka lemur. Many people knew Jovian because he was the real-life lemur who played the character Zoboomafoo in the popular children's TV show of the same name.
Jovian was born at the center in 1994. He lived a long life and was very important for teaching children about lemurs. He passed away peacefully at the center in 2014 when he was 20 years old. His legacy continues to inspire many young people to learn about and care for animals.
Visiting the Duke Lemur Center
If you want to visit the Duke Lemur Center, you need to plan ahead. All visits are by appointment only. This helps the center manage the tours and keep the animals comfortable. During a tour, you can learn about the different species living there and see them up close. It's a great way to learn about conservation and animal care.
Images for kids
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A pygmy slow loris at the Duke Lemur Center
See also
In Spanish: Duke Lemur Center para niños
