Seven Lemurs in Florida Zoo (2026)
Obituary
Seven ruffed lemurs died tragically in a fire at a zoo in Florida in January 2026.
Seven ruffed lemurs died following a fire in their enclosure on Thursday, January 15, at the Panama City Beach Zoo in Panama City Beach, FL. All named after planets, six of the lemurs (Pluto, Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune, and Mercury) died from smoke inhalation, while Venus died shortly after due to complications during treatment. The zoo closed briefly and has since reopened.
Lemurs are popular animals featured in “encounter” experiences at zoos around the US, where people pay to touch, photograph, or interact with the animals. However, these are negative experiences for lemurs, putting both animals and humans at risk. Lemur encounters are also popular at petting zoos, where children and adults have been bitten.
Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs are native to eastern Madagascar. They are larger than many other lemur species, and consume a fruit-only diet. Sadly, most lemurs are critically endangered, including black-and-white ruffed lemurs, facing extinction across the world. Not only do they face habitat loss, but they are also common casualties in the illegal wildlife and pet trade.
World Animal Protection urges everyone who loves lemurs to avoid zoos and enjoy them in the wild or at accredited sanctuaries.
