Slow Lorises: Nighttime Poisonous Primates

Slow lorises have a toxic bite unique among primates.

Slow lorises are nocturnal primates found in Southeast Asia.

At least eight slow loris species belong to genus Nycticebus.

Slow loris torsos are long and flexible for twisting branches.

Slow lorises have hands and feet with a pincer-like grip.

Slow lorises lick a sweat gland to activate their toxin.

The toxin contains a chemical related to cat allergen proteins.

Slow lorises move slowly and freeze completely when threatened.

Known predators include snakes, hawk-eagles, and orangutans.

Slow lorises communicate by scent marking; males are territorial.

Slow lorises reproduce slowly; infants ride or stay on branches.

Slow lorises eat small animals, fruit, tree gum, and vegetation.

All slow loris species face threats from habitat loss and trade.

Slow lorises survive by freezing and using toxin in disputes.