FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | August 7, 2025

Media contact: Niki Voudren, Executive Director

niki@mmzoo.org | (540) 343-3241 | http://www.mmzoo.org

Mill Mountain Zoo Unveils Breeding Pair of Critically Endangered Primates in Brand-New Exhibit!

Roanoke, Virginia — Mill Mountain Zoo is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest exhibit, marking the return of primates to the Zoo! Even more exciting, this is the first time in Mill Mountain Zoo’s history that it will house a breeding pair of critically endangered red ruffed lemurs—one of the most striking and imperiled primates on the planet.

Native to the rainforests of Madagascar, red ruffed lemurs are easily recognized by their vibrant rust-colored coats, expressive golden-green eyes, and unique vocalizations. Their wild populations are critically threatened by deforestation and the illegal pet trade—making their presence at Mill Mountain Zoo both a vital conservation effort and an educational opportunity.

The Zoo’s red ruffed lemurs are two years old and have been thoughtfully paired as a potential breeding duo to support the long-term care and conservation of their species.

“This exhibit is a monumental next chapter for Mill Mountain Zoo,” said Niki Voudren, Executive Director. “By welcoming critically endangered red ruffed lemurs, we are expanding our conservation impact and continuing our mission to connect people with wildlife, while raising awareness about endangered species. These animals are not just ambassadors for their kind—they are a symbol of hope and action.”

The new red ruffed lemur exhibit, now open to the public, is located in the Zoo’s former snow leopard habitat, which has been thoughtfully redesigned to support the needs of a breeding pair of critically endangered primates.

The exhibit was designed in-house by the Zoo’s animal department manager and brought to life by the dedicated animal care and maintenance teams. The habitat has been carefully tailored to support the natural behaviors of these primates. Key features include elevated climbing structures that mimic rainforest canopies and naturalistic landscaping with integrated opportunities for both mental and physical enrichment.

Red ruffed lemurs are one of the largest species of lemur. They use their long tongues to pull nectar from flowers and their fluffy faces to transfer pollen—making them the largest pollinators in the world. Their name comes from the tufts of red fur around their ears. Red ruffed lemurs can live up to 20 years in the wild and up to 30 years in human care. They weigh approximately 9 pounds as adults, and their tails—used for balance in the treetops—can grow up to 2 feet long. These highly social animals live in groups of 2 to 32 individuals and communicate using vocalizations and scent marking.

This exciting addition strengthens the Zoo’s role as a regional leader in conservation, education, and exceptional animal welfare. Guests are invited to visit the new lemurs and learn how they can help protect wildlife around the world.

About Mill Mountain Zoo

Mill Mountain Zoo is governed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), demonstrating excellence in animal welfare, safety, and ethics on a national level.

All animal residents are critically endangered, threatened, vulnerable, or non-releasable due to injury, captive birth, or owner relinquishment. The Zoo participates in national and international Species Survival Plans, humane research, and conservation initiatives.

Located atop Mill Mountain, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mill Mountain Zoo has been a Roanoke institution since 1952. Operated by the non-profit Blue Ridge Zoological Society of Virginia, Inc., the Zoo is dedicated to promoting appreciation and understanding of wildlife and habitat preservation through quality exhibits, educational programming, and collaboration with other conservation organizations.

Mill Mountain Zoo upholds three core beliefs: excellence in animal care, conservation management of endangered species, and fostering science education through its animal collection.