Duke Lemur Center

The Duke Lemur Center, located in Durham, North Carolina, is the world’s largest sanctuary for rare and endangered prosimian primates, particularly lemurs. Established in 1966, the center is dedicated to the conservation, research, and education of these unique creatures. It provides a haven for over 200 lemurs from 14 different species, making it a critical resource for the study and preservation of these primates.

The center’s primary mission is conservation. Lemurs are the most endangered group of mammals on the planet, and the Duke Lemur Center plays a vital role in their preservation. The center participates in various international breeding programs to help sustain lemur populations and supports habitat protection initiatives in Madagascar, the native home of lemurs. Their conservation efforts extend beyond the facility, with programs aimed at preserving the natural habitats of lemurs and promoting environmental stewardship among local communities in Madagascar.

Visitors to the Duke Lemur Center can enjoy a variety of educational and interactive experiences. The center offers guided tours that provide insights into the behaviors, ecology, and conservation of lemurs. Tours such as the Lemurs Live! walking tour and the Behind-the-Scenes tour allow guests to see the lemurs in naturalistic enclosures and learn about the center’s research and conservation efforts. The center also offers specialized experiences like the Lemur Keeper for a Day program, which provides an in-depth look at the daily care and management of the lemurs.

Education is a cornerstone of the Duke Lemur Center’s mission. The center offers a range of educational programs designed to inspire and inform people of all ages about lemur conservation. These include school field trips, virtual programs, summer camps, and public lectures. The center’s educational outreach helps to raise awareness about the critical status of lemurs and the importance of conservation efforts.

The Duke Lemur Center is also a leading research facility. Scientists from around the world come to study the lemurs, focusing on areas such as behavior, genetics, and health. The research conducted at the center contributes to our understanding of primate biology and conservation strategies, providing valuable insights that can help protect endangered species in the wild.

Open year-round, the Duke Lemur Center offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors. Whether you’re a conservation enthusiast, a researcher, or simply looking for an educational outing, the center provides an opportunity to learn about and support the conservation of some of the world’s most fascinating and endangered primates.