Red-fronted lemurs cuddle at the Valley Zoo, showing humans the basics of animal attraction. (Jason Franson, Sun Media)

They say it's a jungle out there, but perhaps it's more of a zoo.

Either way, it's probably fitting the Edmonton Valley Zoo is hosting a series of speed-dating nights to coincide with Valentine's Day.

Singles participating in the first-ever event - dubbed Animal Attraction - will get a chance to meet potential dates in short, eight- to 10-minute sessions.

All the while staff will lecture on the mating habits of animals who live at the zoo, like parrots, armadillos and potentially lemurs.

Events co-ordinator Tyler Pollock said the sessions, which run Feb 14-16, are a way to attract people who may not normally visit the zoo.

"We want people to view the Valley Zoo as a dating destination, as a destination for all age groups," Pollock said.

Speed-dating nights are growing increasingly popular among singles.

Participants meet a variety of people in their age range during short sessions. At the end of the night, they indicate who they would be interested in meeting again.

If there's a match, the organization running the speed-dating night passes on the appropriate contact information.

The Valley Zoo event is being hosted by Edmonton's "original speed-dating service" - Eight Minute Date.

What's unique about this event, other than the fact it's being held at the zoo, is that participants are guaranteed to leave knowing more about how animals mate.

"They get that combination of learning about animals, their reproduction and mating habits - while at the same time they get an opportunity to potentially meet a significant other themselves," Pollock said.

The animal talk acts as an ice-breaker, he said.

"That's a big thing. If you're sitting and there are monkeys howling in the back and birds chirping, that kind of thing, it's a little different than the music blasting of a normal bar experience."

Pollock said the event will be held indoors at Valley Zoo facilities. Tickets are $40.

Call city bookings at 496-2925 to buy a ticket or for more information or log on to www.eightminutedate.ca.