Loris refers to a small to medium-sized primate belonging to the family Lorisidae. Loris is primarily found in southern Asia, particularly in India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia. These arboreal mammals are characterized by their slender bodies, large eyes, and specialized adaptations for an exclusively insectivorous diet.
Loris is typically nocturnal, spending most of its life in trees and rarely descending to the ground. These primates possess a slow and deliberate movement pattern, thanks to their specialized hands and feet, enabling them to grasp tree branches firmly. With hind limbs developed for leaping, they have the ability to make unexpected jumps from one branch to another.
The diet of a loris consists primarily of insects, such as ants, termites, and beetles. It employs a specialized grooming claw to remove insect exoskeletons while consuming prey. Loris' diet is supplemented with tree sap and nectar, which it licks from flowers and certain specialized structures called lorises.
Lorises are well-known for their unique adaptations, including a toxic bite. They possess a specialized gland on the inside of the elbow, secreting a toxic substance known as brachial gland exudate. This secretion is mixed with saliva and delivered through a bite when threatened or during territorial disputes.
In recent years, various loris species have faced significant threats due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Several loris species are listed as endangered or critically endangered. Conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect these unique primates and their natural habitats.
