Duke Lemur Center

The Duke Lemur Center is a research facility in Durham housing more than 200 lemurs from 13 different species across multiple energy-efficient buildings with specialized habitats. Visitors can observe the animals through guided tours that allow close views of the animals in their designed spaces.

The facility was founded in 1966 when John Buettner-Janusch moved a colony of roughly 90 prosimian primates from Yale University to Duke University's campus. This transfer established one of North America's leading centers for lemur research and conservation.

The center became widely known through the children's television show Zoboomafoo, which filmed episodes using the facility's dedicated studio space. This television presence brought attention to lemur research and conservation in a way that reached families across the country.

Tours must be reserved in advance and operate on set schedules throughout the year. It is best to check availability before visiting to ensure you can join a guided group.

The facility operates a reintroduction program in Madagascar's Betampona Natural Reserve, the first effort to return prosimian primates to their native island environment. This work represents a direct connection between the research conducted here and conservation efforts in the animals' original habitat.

Location: Durham

Inception: 1966

Founders: John Buettner-Janusch

Website: https://lemur.duke.edu

GPS coordinates: 35.99490,-78.96040

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:21