The Bedford Estates, LondonWe had some special celebrations in the Park last week, as Broom the black and white ruffed lemur turned an impressive 30 years old!
Keepers wanted to mark the special occasion with a special party and presents - and even a birthday cake!
Broom - along with pals Tangle and Tulem - had loads of fun opening themed cardboard boxes containing all their favourite veggies, and could even be seen sticking their heads right into the bottom of the boxes to reach the tasty treats!
Broom’s birthday was particularly notable, as these primates have a natural life expectancy of just 18 years and are one of the most endangered lemur species – classed as critically endangered (one step away from being extinct) in the wild.
A firm favourite in the park, Broom has reached his impressive age and continues to have plenty of energy to keep up with Tangle, Tulum and the ring-tailed and red-bellied lemur troops. The black and white ruffed lemur is one of the most iconic species, with its distinctive black and white patterning - a large white ‘ruff’ of fur around their neck gives them their name.
After opening some presents, Broom and friends enjoyed a delicious beetroot and veggie ‘cake’ made by the keepers, who all attended to help Broom celebrate his special day – a perfect end to a very important birthday party!
Stop by and say 'hi' to the birthday boy!
Broom and his lemur pals can be seen (and heard!) in the Foot Safari at the Land of the lemurs walkthrough experience - be sure to stop by on your next visit!
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