Lemur Conservation Foundation

The Lemur Conservation Foundation is a 130-acre, Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) certified facility dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the primates of Madagascar through managed breeding, scientific research, education, and art. LCF hosts educational programs like a field training school, several cohorts of interns, and visiting scholars each year. The forest habitats at our lemur reserve are a very important aspect of education and research projects, as well as a unique environment that allows our lemurs to live in family groups and multi species habitats, much as they do in Madagascar. At the Myakka City Lemur Reserve, we presently hold 41 lemurs, representing six species of lemurs. In 2013, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature found that lemurs are the most endangered primates in the world. Our collection is genetically priceless. The managed breeding program at LCF is one of the most successful in the United States. The Lemur Conservation Foundation was inspired by the vision of Dr. Ian Tattersall, LCF Scientific Advisory Council member and curator of the Division of Anthropology at the American Museum of Natural History. Penelope Bodry-Sanders established LCF in 1996 as the Lower Primate Conservation Foundation. During following years, LCF has become a leader in the conservation and preservation of the primates of Madagascar through programs dedicated to scientific research, education, and a commitment to incorporate art into our outreach programs. Ms. Bodry-Sanders forged lasting partnerships with leaders in conservation biology, and generous, committed donors. Her inspiration, vision, and leadership guided LCF to become a respected voice for science, conservation, education, art, and lemurs, the iconic image of the conservation challenges and environmental stewardship facing Madagascar and the world today.