Bornean Slow Loris

Found in the central south of Indonesian Borneo, the Bornean Slow Loris is a small primate with a round head, large eyes, and almost no tail. It is identified by the dark, contrasting markings on its face, particularly the rounded rings around its eyes and the wide bands of hair in front of its ears. On average, these animals measure about 260.1 mm in length. They are equipped with specialized feet for gripping branches, including an opposable big toe and a dedicated grooming claw on the second toe of the hind foot.

These nocturnal creatures spend their lives in the trees, moving through the forests south of the Kapuas River and east of the Barito River. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of fruit, nectar, tree gum, and insects. Uniquely among primates, they possess a toxic bite used for defense. By licking a gland on the inside of their elbow, they mix an oily secretion with saliva to activate a toxin. This substance is often rubbed into their fur to protect infants or delivered through a bite that the animal is reluctant to release.

The survival of this species is currently under pressure from the loss of its forest home. Between 1987 and 2012, one third of the forests on the island were destroyed. Additionally, they are targeted by the illegal wildlife trade. Their body parts are frequently sold for use in traditional medicine, while their appearance in internet videos has created a demand for them as exotic pets.