Devon Conservation Charity Defies Odds with Rare Lemur Quadruplets

Shaldon Wildlife Trust is celebrating an extraordinary "baby boom" following the birth of four critically endangered red-ruffed lemurs. 

The quadruplets, born on May 4th to mother Eka and father Nero, represent a significant milestone for the small Devon-based charity and for the European breeding programme.

While twins are common for this species, quadruplets are an incredible rarity, occurring in fewer than 6% of births worldwide.

Despite being one of the UK's smaller wildlife charities, Shaldon is known for punching well above its weight on the international stage. 

These newborns are part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) breeding programme, a vital Europe-wide effort to ensure the survival of red-ruffed lemurs, which are only found in a small area in the Northeast of Madagascar. 

Alongside being part of the breeding programme, Shaldon Wildlife Trust directly supports the protection of these animals in the wild through their field conservation partner, the Lemur Conservation Association (AEECL).

The news comes on the heels of the Trust being featured in National Geographic as one of the top zoos globally dedicated to conservation, further cementing the small zoo’s role in global wildlife preservation.

The four youngsters are already keeping mom, Eka, very busy. Visitors to the Trust may soon be able to catch a glimpse of the youngsters as they become more active in their habitat.

"To have four healthy infants at once is a real testament to the care our team provides," sZak Showell, Director, told That's Green.

"We’ve had a lot of excitement recently with the National Geographic coverage, but there is nothing quite like the arrival of 'quads' to remind us why we do what we do. It’s a huge win for the species and a proud moment for Shaldon."

https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk

Love Stinks — But It Saves Wildlife – Valentines Poo at Shaldon Wildlife Trust

This Valentine’s Day, Shaldon Wildlife Trust is inviting lovers, friends, and the slightly mischievous to show their affection in a truly unforgettable way by purchasing a personalised animal-themed “Poo Photo” that not only makes people laugh but also gives back to wildlife conservation.

Following the success of last year’s initiative, which saw around 15 supporters buy framed images of a loved or hated one’s name depicted in the excrement of one of the Trust’s animals, the Trust is bringing back and expanding the idea for 2026.

“Flowers and chocolates are lovely,” said Zak Showell, Director of Shaldon Wildlife Trust. “But for those who want to give something fun, memorable and impactful why not let nature do the talking? Our Valentine’s Poo Sale not only brings a smile, it helps fund vital conservation work here and around the world.”

How it works:

Supporters can pay £5 for a keeper to select an animal’s “offering” to feature with a personalised message.

Pay £10 and you pick the species, so if you have someone who loves meerkats or lemurs, you can pick them a personalised Valentine’s gift.

Each image will be shared across the Trust’s social media channels on February 14th

Proceeds will directly support Shaldon Wildlife Trust’s conservation efforts, supporting 8 projects globally as well as the endangered species at the zoo.

This initiative celebrates the Trust’s mission to protect wildlife and raise awareness of conservation — showing that even the oddest gifts can make a big difference for endangered species.

https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk