New natural exhibit for the Alaotran gentle lemur Hapalemur griseus alaotrensis at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust

The design of a naturalistic enclosure for a breeding group of Alaotran gen tle lemurs Hapalemur griseus alaotrensis at Jersey Wildlife Preservation Tr ust is described. The enclosure measures 800 m(2) and includes a heated she d with an attached mesh-covered area. The enclosure is surrounded by electr ic fencing, which has proved to be an effective marker in most cases. The a rea is planted,vith natural forage including bamboo, leeds, willow and gras ses, allowing the lemurs to display natural behaviour. The animals show app ropriate anti-predator behaviour and the group has continued to breed succe ssfully. The many benefits of this type of enclosure, both for the lemurs a nd as an educational tool, are discussed.