Miscellaneous Residents at EARS

Unique Animals, One Shared Mission

Not all of our residents fit neatly into categories like big cats, bears, or primates. At EARS – Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary, our Miscellaneous Residents are just as special and deserving of care as our largest tigers or most playful monkeys.

From the lively, social lemurs to the slow-moving wisdom of our tortoise, these animals add diversity and charm to our sanctuary family.

Lector – Ring-Tailed Lemur

Lector is a ring-tailed lemur — easily recognized by his bold black-and-white striped tail. While most lemur species spend nearly all their time in trees, ring-tailed lemurs are unique: they spend about 40 percent of their time on the ground.

In their native Madagascar, ring-tailed lemurs live in large social groups and are active during the day, foraging for fruit, leaves, flowers, and insects. Unfortunately, habitat destruction and hunting have put wild lemur populations at risk, making their survival in the wild increasingly uncertain.

At EARS, Lector enjoys:

A secure, enriched habitat with both ground space and climbing structures
Social interaction to mirror natural group dynamics
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and specialized nutrition
Daily opportunities for exploration and mental stimulation

His playful, curious nature makes him a joy for visitors to watch during guided tours.

Turtle Turtle – African Spurred Tortoise

Turtle Turtle is an African spurred tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata), the third-largest tortoise species in the world. Native to the southern edge of the Sahara Desert in Africa, these tortoises are well adapted to arid environments, capable of digging deep burrows to escape the heat.

African spurred tortoises can live more than 70 years, making their care a long-term commitment. Sadly, many are purchased as pets without consideration for their size, diet, or habitat needs. As they grow — sometimes reaching over 100 pounds — they often outlive or outgrow their owners’ ability to care for them.

At EARS, Turtle Turtle enjoys:

Safe, spacious outdoor enclosures with sunny basking areas and shaded retreats
A diet rich in high-fiber greens to promote healthy shell and bone growth
Opportunities to dig, roam, and behave as nature intended
Year-round care tailored to his species’ needs

Foxes

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Why Miscellaneous Residents Need Sanctuary Too

While big cats may get the most attention, smaller exotic species face similar threats in captivity:

Inappropriate ownership: Many people purchase exotic animals without understanding their needs, leading to neglect or surrender.
Loss of habitat: Species like lemurs face critical habitat loss in the wild, making conservation and sanctuary care even more important.
Long lifespans: Animals like tortoises can live decades, creating challenges for private owners.
Specialized diets and habitats: Many exotic species require specific foods, climates, or social structures to stay healthy and happy.

EARS is committed to giving every animal — regardless of size or popularity — the respect and care they deserve.

Life for Miscellaneous Residents at EARS

Our care for residents like Lenny, Lector, and Turtle Turtle includes:
Secure habitats designed for their natural behaviors
Nutrition plans tailored to each species
Enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated
Veterinary care from professionals experienced in exotic species
A peaceful, low-stress environment away from exploitation
Whether it’s providing a sandy spot for Turtle Turtle to bask or adding new climbing ropes for the lemurs, our team ensures that even the smallest residents live enriched, fulfilling lives.

How You Can Help

Every animal at EARS benefits from your support. Donations, sponsorships, and visits help cover:

Habitat maintenance and upgrades
Fresh produce and specialized diets
Medical care and enrichment items
Emergency rescues and transport when needed

If you love animals and want to help the animals at EARS, donate today.

Ways to Support Our Miscellaneous Residents:

Sponsor a Lemur or Tortoise: Your monthly gift directly funds their food, care, and habitat needs
Book a Tour: See their unique personalities during a guided visit
Make a One-Time Donation: Every contribution counts toward their care
Share Their Stories: Help others understand the importance of proper exotic animal care

Meet Our Capuchins: Ki Ki, Sarah, Susie, and Barney

Our white-faced capuchins—Ki Ki, Sarah, Susie, and Barney—are energetic, intelligent, and full of personality. Each one has its own unique traits, favorite activities, and ways of interacting with the world around them. They thrive in their enriched habitats, where climbing, exploring, and socializing are part of every day. Soon, we’ll be sharing their full profiles along with photos so visitors can see their individual personalities and the joy they bring to the sanctuary. These remarkable primates are living proof of the resilience of rescued animals, and every moment of their care reflects the dedication and compassion that make EARS a true sanctuary.

ACORN

SKYLER

Small in Size, Big in Impact

Whether it’s the bounding energy of Lenny and Lector or the steady determination of Turtle Turtle, our Miscellaneous Residents prove that every animal — no matter their size — plays an important role in the sanctuary family.

With your help, we can ensure they live out their lives in safety, comfort, and dignity.