Animal of the Day!

Bengal Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis)

Conservation Status- Endangered

Habitat- Asia

Size (Weight/Length)- 4 kg; 35 cm

Diet- Fruits; Nectar; Insects; Bird eggs; Bark

Cool Facts- Slow loris are the only primates that are venomous and only the second mammal. When combined with their saliva, a gland on their armpit produces a thick, toxic oil that is then rubbed into their fur. The bengal slow loris lives the entirety of their lives in the tree branches. Their rainforest home is full of fruits and flowers that they gorge themselves on. The bengal slow loris usually raises one to two babies a year where they cling to their mother’s back until they are strong enough to climb. Due to the mass deforestation occuring in their home and the illegal pet trade, these slow loris are extremely endangered. Luckily, due to cooperation with native peoples, conservationists are encouraging sustainable farming that allows the Bengal slow loris to live alongisde humans.

Rating- 13/10 (How can you not like that face?)