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

• • 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:

1. Slow loris is the only venomous primate.
2. It is primarily a terrestrial animal.
3. 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) 

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.

SOURCE