Posted September 16, 2025.
Generosity is contagious at the Duke Lemur Center—and we hope it spreads far and wide!
Elisabet (top left) and Doris (bottom right), the most recently named infants through our Ultimate Adoption program! Photos by Sara Nicholson.
We’re thrilled to share that another dedicated DLC volunteer has made a heartfelt donation through an Ultimate Adoption! Inspired by the incredible story of a small group of our education docents, who collectively raised $20,000 to adopt and name Spock and help the DLC during a particularly difficult budget year, she felt moved to give back in a meaningful way.
Her gift is not only an act of compassion—it’s a tribute. With this adoption, she honors the memory of her beloved family members, Elizabeth and Doris, two sisters whose legacy of kindness lives on through this contribution.
We are deeply grateful for her generosity and the ripple effect it creates. At the Duke Lemur Center, every gift tells a story—and this one speaks of love, remembrance, and hope.
Momma Sophia with two-month-old Elisabet (front) and Doris (back) exploring the big wide world. Photo by Sara Nicholson.
Meet Elisabet and Doris!
Elisabet (left) and Doris (right) enjoy the fresh fall air in their free-ranging forest enclosure. Photo by David Haring.
Twin sisters Elisabet and Doris, endangered ring-tailed lemurs, were born on March 27, 2025. They are the sixth and seventh offspring of 20-year-old Sophia and 19-year-old Randy, and they join older sisters Nemesis and Nyx in this family of six. Sophia’s daughters are traditionally given Greek names; Elisabet is the Greek form of Elizabeth, and Doris was a sea nymph in Greek mythology.
Sophia’s twins were both born on the smaller side, but what they lack in size, they make up for in tenacity! Keepers who care for the family have described the twins as brave, resilient, curious, playful, and adventurous. They love exploring their forest enclosure with their family, always making sure to stick close to mom and dad. From a very young age, the infants have bounced around their enclosure, climbing up trees and fences on their own.
Doris balances on dad Randy’s back as she reaches for a tasty leaf. Photo by Sara Nicholson.
Elisabet on dad Randy (front), Doris on mom Sophia (back). Photo by Sara Nicholson.
Doris (front) and Elisabet (back) cuddle up with mom Sophia. Photo by Sara Nicholson.
