Video: Visiting the Lemur Conservation Foundation

MYAKKA CITY -- In Myakka City there is a magical place where lemurs leap free at the Lemur Conservation Foundation’s Lemur Reserve. Scientists and staffers at the private reserve specialize in lemur conservation and preservation, each on a mission to make sure these primates survive through captive breeding efforts, scientific research, education and reintroduction of these endangered animals back into their natural habitats.

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It is the only reserve in the world of its kind and founder Penelope Bodry-Sanders has just passed her legacy to Michael Stern. Stern will continue the vision and mission of Bodry-Sanders for years to come, and the founder said she knew when Stern interviewed he was the one. She said Stern knew everything there was to know about lemur preservation and conservation and was fully acquainted with the Myakka City Lemur Reserve.

There are over 38 free-range lemurs hanging out in the forest at the reserve and Bodry-Sanders said they physically find and count each lemur every morning. She is proud to announce that in May baby lemurs are due, a success story for her vision to leave the lemurs in the natural setting to run, leap, play and mate as they naturally would do in Madagascar - the only country in the world where lemurs exist in the wild.

To learn how you can help support the Lemur Conservation Foundation, call Michael Stern at (941)322-8494 or check out their Web site: www.lemurreserve.org.