Baby mongoose lemur makes debut at Central Coast Zoo
Critically endangered species native to Madagascar has fewer than 2,000 left
– The City of Atascadero and the Central Coast Zoo announced the public debut of Koba, a baby mongoose lemur born on July 4.
Koba, named after a traditional peanut dessert in Madagascar, is beginning to explore the zoo’s habitat and can now be seen by visitors. The baby’s sex has not yet been determined. Zookeepers said mongoose lemurs develop distinct beard colors as they grow, with males showing reddish-orange beards and females remaining white.
At about five weeks old, young mongoose lemurs begin sampling solid foods such as fruit, flowers, leaves, and occasional insects, imitating their parents’ diets. Koba is expected to be fully weaned between five and six months of age. Zoo staff said they will continue to monitor Koba’s development while allowing natural growth and behavior.
Koba joins older brother Ravi, who was born at the zoo last year. At the time, Ravi was one of only three mongoose lemurs born in the country. Their parents, Ernesto and Camilla, are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Mongoose Lemur Species Survival Plan.
Mongoose lemurs are native to Madagascar and are listed as critically endangered, with fewer than 2,000 estimated to remain in the wild. The species is threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
The Central Coast Zoo focuses on animals from biodiversity hotspots, areas that cover 2.5 percent of Earth’s land but support nearly half of all known bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species. Zoo officials said their goal is to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these ecosystems through education and conservation.
The zoo also announced updated hours following Labor Day weekend. Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 2, the zoo will be open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will close Tuesdays and Wednesdays during non-holiday weeks but remain open most school holidays in the fall and winter.
The Central Coast Zoo, located at Atascadero Lake Park on Highway 41, is home to nearly 100 animal species representing about 300 animals, including red pandas, monkeys, fossa, meerkats, parrots, and reptiles. More information is available at www.centralcoastzoo.org or by calling (805) 461-5080.
