Stumpy the Lemur makes history at Five Sisters Zoo

One of Five Sisters Zoo’s most beloved residents has achieved worldwide recognition as the oldest living ring-tailed lemur in captivity, according to Guinness World Records.

Article Source: Five Sisters Zoo
Last Updated: 16 June 2025 9:12

Stumpy celebrated his 39th birthday on Sunday 15th June 2025, surrounded by keepers, visitors – and his two sons, Red (aged 21) and Julian (aged 20), who still share his enclosure.

Born in 1986 in Surrey, Stumpy moved to Scotland in 2005 and has been a much-loved member of the Five Sisters Zoo family ever since. Known as “a firm favourite with staff and visitors alike,” he has become one of the zoo’s most iconic and enduring characters.

While ring-tailed lemurs typically live to around 20–25 years in human care – and less than 20 in the wild – Stumpy has defied the odds. Despite some age-related arthritis and reduced eyesight, he remains in surprisingly good shape thanks to decades of dedicated and evolving care from the zoo’s animal team.

Spanning nearly two decades at the zoo, Stumpy’s health and wellbeing have been sustained through a tailored, evolving programme of specialist care. The team credits his longevity to the close attention and commitment shown by keepers, veterinary staff and animal welfare experts.

“Stumpy has been with us since day one, and we’ve grown together,” said Gary Curran, Senior Management at Five Sisters Zoo.

“He’s taught us so much – from refining his care routine to adapting our enrichment strategies – and we’re incredibly proud to see that recognised by Guinness World Records. He’s an absolute character, and a real ambassador for what long-term, focused animal care can achieve.”

Stumpy has also contributed significantly to lemur conservation and education. Over his lifetime, he has fathered 11 offspring, who have gone on to produce 25 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and even one great-great-granddaughter. Many of his descendants now live at other zoos across Europe, including Attica Zoo in Greece.

As well as offering up-close Lemur Experiences for the public, Five Sisters Zoo partners with SEED Madagascar, a conservation charity working to protect lemur populations and habitats in the wild. The zoo uses Stumpy’s story to highlight the importance of long-term care, conservation, and species survival.

GWR’s Senior Managing Editor, Adam Millward, who worked with the zoo on the verification process, was delighted by the final result: “Reaching such a grand age – we’re talking living well over a decade beyond what is typical for your kind – is impressive for any species. With this record, there’s now no question that Stumpy has truly earned his stripes! I hope he enjoyed his special day – and paws crossed we hear from Five Sisters Zoo again for the big 4-0 next year.”

Stumpy’s record-breaking age serves as a milestone not only for the zoo but for the wider conservation community – demonstrating the power of ongoing education, expert care and advocacy.

For more information on Stumpy’s story, upcoming events, or how to support the zoo’s conservation work, please visit www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk.

 

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