A rare slow loris rescued from Numaligarh (Assam) and shifted to Kaziranga Rescue Centre.
About Slow Loris
- Slow loris is a small nocturnal primate found in South and Southeast Asia.
- Belongs to genus Nycticebus.
- Unique feature: World’s only venomous primate.
- Venomous animal: Produces toxin injected through bite (slow loris secretes venom from elbow glands).
- Key Characteristics
-
- Arboreal species i.e it lives mainly on trees.
- Large forward-facing eyes adapted for night vision.
- Movement:
-
- Slow and stealthy to avoid predators
- Behaviour:
- Comes to ground only for defecation
- Feeds on fruits, insects, tree gum
- Conservation Status
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- International Union for Conservation of Nature: Mostly Endangered or Vulnerable (species-specific)
- Protected under:
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 – Schedule I
- Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES Appendix I)
- Threats
- Habitat loss (deforestation, tea plantations)
- Illegal wildlife trade (pet trade)
-
- Human-wildlife conflict
Species Diversity
- Around nine species globally, including:
- Bengal slow loris (found in Northeast India)
- Javan, Sumatran, pygmy, Bornean etc.
Key Takeaways
- Slow loris = rare, nocturnal, venomous primate
- Highly protected species in India
- Conservation requires habitat protection + awareness
Exam Hook (Prelims-Oriented MCQ)
Consider the following statements:
- Slow loris is the only venomous primate.
- It is primarily a terrestrial animal.
- It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Which of the statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)Â
One-line wrap: The rescue of a slow loris in Assam highlights the need to protect one of the world’s most unique and endangered primates.
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