Residing in geographic areas such as the southern and southeastern part of Asia, the Loris is an extremely interesting animal that is in the same scientific order of primates and in the suborder of Strepsirrihini. The Loris has very unique characteristics that are similar to that of the Lemur, as they have a rhinarium, wet nose, and a tatetum lucidium, reflective layer over the retina of the eye, as well. The Loris is an interesting animal that generally weighs anywhere from ten ounces to four pounds depending on the specific species. Lorises are generally small as they range anywhere from seven to fifteen inches and generally are omnivores as they feed on lizards, insects, and fruits. The Loris is an arboreal creature, in which case they rarely if ever touch the ground. The Loris uses this feature as both for protective and hunting measures, as they are able to climb trees with pristine grace and skill, hopping from one tree to another. The Loris is also a very independent creature, as they prefer to hunt and live alone in complete isolation. Most Lorises when reproducing only have one to three offspring, and once they reach eight to twelve months are generally left to roam and explore the large world by themselves. They are thought to work and live by themselves because they have excellent defense features aside from its arboreal life style. A specific type of Loris has a very rare trait, a toxic bite, the bite mixes with saliva and secretions from the sweat gland to produce a bite that is toxic enough to kill small animals.
Their toxic bites and arboreal style of defense however is not nearly enough to stop one of their main predators, humans. The Loris is a species that is facing its greatest threats by humans through acts of deforestation and the brutal wildlife trade. Lorises have to deal with deforestation which poses a threat to their natural habitat, forcing them to move from their home or sometimes be killed when trees are cut down. However, the biggest and most brutal threat that humans can impose is the illegal and black market wildlife trade. Lorises are small, cute, and passive as they rarely react aggressively towards humans. However, one must understand the brutal procedures and horrible environment these animals must endure to become sold. As many Lorises have their teeth and nails removed, these acts of removal pose serious threats to their health. Many Lorises die and some face tremendous amounts of pain from infections, as attempting to domesticate or take these animals from their natural habitats is considered by many as inhumane.
Loris being shown its passive and subordinate side, as most Loris's prefer not to interact with anyone.
A loris attempting to recreate its natural habitat by hanging on a plastic chair.
