Grey Slender Loris

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Grey Slender Loris

Grey Slender Loris

Introduction

The gray slender loris is a species of primate in the family Loridae.
They are prosimians—which means they are part of the oldest and most primitive group of primates

Characteristics of Grey Slender Loris

The gray slender loris is the smallest species of loris.
The Grey slender loris is a nocturnal hunter.
It is also a slow-moving animal. It comes down into the bushes to feed and crosses open stretches of ground to enter isolated groves or to cross from one tree to another.
Generally, it sleeps by day, hiding among foliage or in a hole or crevice. It starts moving from its resting place by dusk.
Grey Slender Loris has no tail, its flexible spine and long limbs help it cross the canopy with agility.
It has opposable thumbs which allow it to cling motionless for long periods.
It has large, forward-facing eyes with extraordinary night vision.
Unlike many primates, it cannot jump or leap due to the absence of a tail.
Communication:
- Gray slender lorises communicate with a range of vocalisations and also use urine and scent marking
Diet:
- They are mainly insectivorous. They primarily eat insects but do occasionally eat fruits, flowers, and small animals like mice and geckos when given the opportunity.
- Though it is insectivorous, it is fond of berries also.
Reproduction:
- Lorises are found to be promiscuous, multiple males competing for one female for mating.

Distribution & Habitat

This species occurs in tropical primary and secondary rainforests, dry semi-deciduous forests, scrub, swamp, acacia, bamboo, edge, and montane cloud forest up to 2,000 m asl.
Also found in home gardens, tea plantations, hotel gardens probably surviving mainly on insects.
The species occurs in southern and eastern India (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu) and Sri Lanka.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List: Near threatened
CITES: Appendix II
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.

FAQs

Q1. What is the Grey Slender Loris?

The Grey Slender Loris is a small nocturnal primate found in southern India and Sri Lanka. It belongs to the Loridae family and is known for its large forward-facing eyes, flexible limbs, and insectivorous diet.

Q2. Where is the Grey Slender Loris found in India?

It is found in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It inhabits dry deciduous forests, tropical rainforests, plantations, and even gardens.

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