Discover Lemur Paradise at Zoo Ostrava
Visitors can explore the Lemur Paradise exhibition at the Zoological Garden and Botanical Park Ostrava, which is positioned in the lower section of the venue and is part of the Pevninské islands. This special area showcases some of the most at-risk animal species, particularly different kinds of lemurs. Guests have the chance to enter Lemur Paradise and, with the help of keepers, get a close-up glimpse of these amazing animals. They will be able to see 14 lemurs from four different species: 11 kata lemurs (Lemur catta), one white-faced lemur (Eulemur albifrons), and two lemurs with red bellies (Eulemur rubriventer)—all of which are male.
Lemur Paradise is open every day from 2 to 3 pm. During 14:00 to 14:30, visitors can hear keepers discuss the lives of lemurs both in the zoo and in their natural habitats. The exhibition is closed only during bad weather or unforeseen operational issues. The zoo itself operates from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, with ticket counters and pavilions closing at 6:00 pm, marking the last time for entry.
Lemurs, also known as wandering spirits
The kata lemur is a unique species of prosimian that is found only on Madagascar. It is the only type of day-active lemur that travels extensively over land. Kata lemurs typically live in groups ranging from 5 to 30 members, with females taking the lead. They have a long, striped tail, which helps them maintain balance while they jump and climb, and it also serves as a means of communication among them. These lemurs are omnivorous, enjoying a diet that includes fruits, leaves, flowers, new plant shoots, and occasionally eggs or small invertebrates. The name “lemur” is derived from the Latin word “lemures,” referring to spirits of the deceased in ancient Rome that were said to roam the night and make haunting sounds. The French, who were the first Europeans to meet lemurs in Madagascar, recalled the “Roman ghosts” because of their eerie, crying sounds resembling human grief. This is how the lemurs got their name. Kata lemurs typically live for about 20 years, while white-faced lemurs can live for nearly 30 years, primarily found in northern Madagascar. The red-bellied lemur (Eulemur rubriventer), on the other hand, resides in the wetter regions of the eastern part of the island and tends to form pairs, which is unusual for lemurs. They play a crucial role in forests by helping to disperse seeds through their fruit-based diet, effectively aiding in new plant growth.
