Today, Tess and Greta, two female ring-tailed lemurs, arrived at De Zonnegloed! Both have had challenging pasts, having been rejected by their original group at another rescue center. Now, they have found a new home with us, where they will have the opportunity to settle and get to know our own group of lemurs.
About Tess and Greta
Tess, born in 2021, has a dominant personality that caused tensions in her original group, eventually leading to her rejection. Greta, born in 2022, is less dominant and was initially well accepted. However, after being attacked by group members, she had to be removed for her safety. An attempt to reintroduce her in June 2024 failed, leading to her being permanently excluded. The sisters share the same father, which makes their bond even more special.
Why Are Lemurs Sometimes Rejected?
Ring-tailed lemurs live in groups with a strict hierarchy. Tensions can arise when an individual, like Tess with her dominance, disrupts the balance, leading to conflicts. In Greta’s case, she was initially accepted but had to be removed after an attack. Reintroduction attempts can fail due to changes in group dynamics or heightened tensions.
Rejection can result from hierarchical conflicts, competition for resources, or shifts in group structure. Animals that disrupt the social balance or become vulnerable after conflicts, like Tess and Greta, are at higher risk of being excluded for the group’s stability.
A Fresh Start
Tess and Greta will be gradually introduced to our existing lemur group, which includes Bosede and Thimba, a male and female ring-tailed lemur, and Ayo, a male brown lemur. We hope they will find a good place within this group. If integration is unsuccessful, we will ensure they have a comfortable, safe space where they can thrive independently.
Support Tess and Greta
Would you like to contribute to the well-being of Tess, Greta, and the other animals in our sanctuary? Symbolically adopt a lemur and support our work. Your adoption helps us provide top-quality care, nutrition, and space for these beautiful creatures.
Come visit De Zonnegloed soon to meet Tess and Greta and follow their integration journey into our lemur group!