Radio Chipstone series been exploring the connection we humans have with objects. But we really haven't considered our close relatives. The Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison is home to a population of Lemurs who seem to connect to objects in a way that's a bit familiar. The Lemurs were born in captivity and have never experienced living in their natural habitats.
The zoo uses everyday objects such as plant matter from the zoo grounds, items donated by the public, and children's toys to help improve the quality of life for their animals and encourage behaviors that they would need to survive in the wild.
Director of the Henry Vilas Zoo, Ronda Schwetz, explains that Lemurs covet objects in a display of dominance rather that ownership. Zookeeper Mary Schmidt says she's seen baby Lemurs cling to blankets much like small children. The Vilas Zoo doesn't charge admission and according to Director Ronda Schwetz, that means access to objects is limited:
Gianofer Fields studies material culture at UW-Madison and is the curator of "RadioChipstone" - a project funded by the Chipstone Foundation, a decorative arts foundation whose mission is preserving and interpreting their collection, as well as stimulating research and education in the decorative arts.
