Lemur at West Lothian zoo breaks world record and becomes 'world's oldest'

Edinburgh Live

16-06-2025

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A record breaking lemur at a West Lothian zoo has made history and become the oldest in the world in captivity.
Stumpy, the ring-tailed lemur celebrated his 39th birthday on Sunday, June 15, surrounded by keepers and visitors at Five Sisters Zoo.
Also present were the Stumpy's two sons, Red (aged 21) and Julian (aged 20), who still share an enclosure with their dad, reports The Daily Record.
According to the zoo, Stumpy - who is one of their most beloved residents - has now achieved worldwide recognition and his status as the oldest living ring-tailed lemur in captivity has now been confirmed by the Guinness World Records.
In human care, ring-tailed lemurs usually live to be between 20 to 25, while it's rare for the species to reach the age of 20 in the wild. But despite age-related arthritis and reduced eyesight, Stumpy remains in a surprisingly healthy condition thanks to decades of dedicated care from the Five Sisters Zoo team.
Born in 1986 in Surrey, Stumpy moved to Scotland back in 2005 and has been a well loved member of the zoo's family ever since.
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According to the zoo, Stumpy is known as "a firm favourite with staff and visitors alike". Over the years, he has become among the zoo's most iconic and enduring characters.
Having been at Five Sisters for nearly two decades, Stumpy's health and wellbeing have been sustained through a tailored and evolving programme of specialist care.
According to the team, his longevity is thanks to the close attention and commitment of the zoo's keepers, veterinary staff, and animal welfare experts.
Senior Management at Five Sisters Zoo Gary Curran commented: "Stumpy has been with us since day one, and we've grown together.
"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."
Five Sisters states that Stumpy has contributed significantly to lemur conservation and education, and over his lifetime he has fathered 11 offspring.
His children have gone on to produce 25 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and even one great-great-granddaughter, with many of his descendants now living at zoos across Europe.
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. Guinness World Records Senior Managing Editor Adam Millward, who worked with the zoo on the verification process, was delighted by the final result.
He said: "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."
According to Five Sisters Zoo, Stumpy's record-breaking age serves as a milestone not only for the zoo itself but the wider conservation community and demonstrates the power of ongoing education, expert care, and advocacy.
More information on Stumpy's story can be found on the Five Sisters Zoo website.