Naples Zoo recently announced the birth of two endangered ring-tailed lemurs, born on March 25. Parents PJ and Julien were genetically matched by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ cooperatively managed Species Survival Plan program, designed to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse and demographically stable population for the long-term future. One year ago, PJ and Julien welcomed baby Velo, and now they will add two more babies to their troop.

Lemurs are the most endangered mammal group in the world, and ringtailed lemurs are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. They’re hard to count, as they scatter over large areas, but they’ve lost more than 50% of their population in the last 30 years. Their biggest threat is deforestation. Fortunately, they are found in several protected areas in southern Madagascar.

Zoo officials said PJ has been “an exceptional mother, showing attentive care and nurturing to both of the new babies,” according to a news release. Velo is taking his role as big brother well.

Guests can see this thriving troop of lemurs on Naples Zoo’s Primate Expedition Cruise. Naples Zoo was planning a gender reveal; watch its social media pages for an update on the twins.

• Naples Press Staff