The Dehiwala Zoological Gardens received another pair of rare animals belonging to the Monkey family from England.
A pair of ring-tailed lemurs (Unahapuluwa) was brought to the Zoological Gardens from the Rare Species Breeding Centre in London under the Animal Exchange prorgramme. Those who visit the zoo can now see the ring-tailed lemurs as they were on display.It is the only member of the Lemur genus endemic to the island of Madagascar. It inhabits gallery forests to spiny scrub in the southern regions of the island. Lemurs are omnivorous. The animal is diurnal,being active exclusively in daylight hours.
The Ring-tailed Lemur is highly social, living in groups of up to 30 individuals. It is also female dominant, a trait common among lemurs.
Education Officer of the Zoo, Nihal Senerath said that they also received a pair of Meer cats from the Centre as well. He said the Meer cats are now being held at the Veterinary hospital till the animals are used to the atmosphere.
He added that in return Sri Lanka has sent a pair of Giant squirrels and a Rusty Spotted cat to England.
Courtesy: Government Information Department
Sun, Mar 14, 2010
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