Nycticebus – Slow lorises

Nycticebus, commonly known as the slow loris, is a genus of small, nocturnal primates native to Southeast Asia. These creatures are known for their distinctive round faces, large, expressive eyes, and a body adapted for a slow, deliberate life in the trees. Their name, “slow loris,” aptly describes their movement: they are methodical and cautious, moving slowly through the forest canopy to avoid drawing attention from predators.

One of the most unique features of slow lorises is their eyes, which are large and forward-facing, providing excellent night vision essential for their nocturnal lifestyle. Their fur is dense and soft, typically ranging in color from light grey to deep brown, providing camouflage among the trees. Another notable characteristic is their strong grip; slow lorises have a special type of joint in their hands and feet that allows them to grasp branches for extended periods, an adaptation that facilitates their slow-moving, arboreal lifestyle.

Slow lorises are also one of the few mammals with a toxic bite. They have a gland on the inside of their elbow that secretes a toxin. When they groom themselves, the toxin gets mixed with their saliva. A bite from a slow loris can deliver this toxin, which can cause severe reactions in predators and even humans. This unique defense mechanism is complemented by their ability to remain still for long periods, making them less noticeable to both prey and predators.

Sadly, slow lorises face significant threats from the illegal wildlife trade. They are often captured and sold as exotic pets, partly because of their cute appearance and the misguided belief that they make good pets. This illegal trade is exacerbated by the popularity of viral videos that show lorises in unnatural, harmful conditions. Additionally, habitat loss due to deforestation is a major challenge to their survival.