Two critically endangered lemur babies born at Fota Wildlife Park

The twin lemurs, born in April as part of an international breeding programme, are critically endangered native Madagascan animals

Fota Wildlife Park announced the birth of two critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur babies, born on 21st of April to first-time mother Romy and father Iray, following a gestation period of 102 days. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO

Members of the public have been invited to name two newly born black-and-white ruffed lemur babies at Fota Wildlife Park in Cork.

The young lemurs are part of a coordinated international breeding programme. Their mother, Romy, was born at Fota in June 2022, while their father, Iray, arrived from NaturZoo Rheine in March 2025.

The lemurs, born on April 21, are native to Madagascar and, like the majority of lemur species, are critically endangered.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, fewer than 250 black-and-white ruffed lemurs exist in the wild.

Fota said the pairing is a “carefully managed match designed to support the genetic health of the species”.

Fota Wildlife Park announced the birth of two critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur babies, born on 21st of April to first-time mother Romy and father Iray, following a gestation period of 102 days. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO

The young lemurs are unable to cling to their mother and have instead been spotted being carried in her mouth. Staff have also observed the pair basking in the sun on their island habitat.

According to Fota lead ranger Teresa Power, the lemurs’ young age makes it impossible to determine their gender.

Members of the public can submit name suggestions for the two baby lemurs through Fota’s blog. Suggested names are encouraged to relate to Madagascar or hold a meaningful connection to the species.