Female Ring-tail Lemur, Tiana, had a date with the human doctor this week. 

Perth Zoo vets enlisted the expertise of human specialists to help learn more about the reproductive mysteries of our five-year-old Ring-tail Lemur, Tiana. 

Weighing in at just over 2kg, this petite primate has been seen mating with male Gimaro multiple times, but unfortunately has not been able to become pregnant. 

For a young, healthy lemur, this is very unusual!
 

Perth Zoo Veterinarian, Rebecca Vaughan-Higgins, said: “Tiana is an otherwise healthy young lemur, so it is a bit concerning that she hasn’t become pregnant. 

“It could mean there is something sinister hiding in her reproductive system. 

“The health and wellbeing of our animals is always our top priority, so it’s very important we investigate these problems and do everything we can to manage them.”

With expert help from human gyanacological oncology specialists, our teams conducted a thorough exploratory check through Tiana’s reproductive system. 

“Tiana’s case has been quite unusual, but the information from this recent procedure has been helpful,” Rebecca said. 

“We’ve gathered some good images of what looks like a polyp on her vaginal wall, and now we’ll work with our human specialist colleagues and international lemur experts to determine our next steps. 

“Hopefully, we can make a plan for Tiana that solves this reproductive issue and enable her to become a mum in the future so she can live in a big family group with Gimaro.”

Following the procedure, Tiana recovered in a warm, comfortable bed and was carefully monitored under the watchful eyes of her primate keepers. 

Perth Zoo is part of the regionally coordinated program working to create a genetically viable insurance population of Ring-tail Lemurs within zoos across Australia and New Zealand. 

In fact, our very own keeper Jenna Hollamby is the Ring-tail Lemur species coordinator! Learn more about her important role in lemur conservation here. 

Perth Zoo is home to two species of this precious primate: Ring-tail Lemurs and Black and White Ruffed Lemurs. 

Tiana’s story coincides with World Lemur Day, where conservationists across the globe join forces to raise awareness for these special animals. 

All species of Lemur are endemic to Madagascar, but populations are facing trouble due to the illegal pet trade, habitat loss and individuals being hunted for bushmeat. 

That’s why we work with the Madagascan Fauna and Flora Group, and directly support their on-ground conservation efforts.  

Funds provided to this project help purchase native lemur habitat and train rangers to protect the land against poachers, while protecting the country’s struggling biodiversity.  

You can help us save Tiana’s wild cousins here.