Pygmy Slow Loris
Scientific Name
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More Information
Physical Description
Less than a foot long, pygmy slow lorises are most easily identified by their huge brown eyes, which help them spot prey in the dark. Their short brown-and-gray coat varies from individual to individual. They have opposable thumbs and strong hands and feet that help them climb trees—albeit very slowly. These primates are nocturnal and arboreal, foraging and hunting in the trees at night. They eat insects, tree gum, small fauna, fruit, and flower nectar.
Interesting Fact 1
While hunting, pygmy slow lorises remain motionless until their prey comes within striking distance.
Interesting Fact 2
Their specialized extremities allow them to hang from branches for extended periods.
Interesting Fact 3
Slow lorises are the only primates with a venomous bite, which they use to defend themselves against rivals and predators.
Species Survival Plan®
We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.
Commitment to Care
Lincoln Park Zoo prioritizes individual well-being over everything else. Guided by scientific research, staff and volunteers work to provide the best welfare outcomes for each individual in the zoo’s care.
Support Your Zoo
Animals Depend On People Too
When you ADOPT an animal, you support world-class animal care by helping to provide specially formulated diets, new habitat elements, and regular veterinary checkups.
Wish List
The Wish List is full of one-of-a-kind items for the zoo’s animals, including nutritious snacks and enrichment items to keep them active and healthy.
Take Action With Us
Wildlife face many daunting challenges—some global, like planet-wide climate change, and some that affect individuals, like an animal ingesting plastic—but now is not the time to despair. None of these problems are too big for us to come together and solve.
