Wildlife

Slow Loris Welfare and Illegal Pet Trade

Slow lorises are venomous primates illegally traded as exotic pets, suffering enormously from tooth removal and captivity stress.

Key Facts

All eight slow loris species are protected by CITES
Their teeth are often removed before sale, causing infections and death
Viral tickling videos have increased demand for lorises as pets
They require very specific dietary and social needs
Wild populations are declining due to poaching and habitat loss

Welfare Considerations

Slow lorises suffer intensely in the illegal pet trade. Tooth removal by crude methods like nail clippers is excruciatingly painful and frequently leads to fatal infections. The removal of their venom delivery mechanism is mutilating. In captivity, they suffer from inappropriate diet, stress, and inability to express natural nocturnal behaviors.

What You Can Do

Never share or engage with slow loris pet videos
Report suspicious wildlife sales to authorities
Support TRAFFIC and wildlife crime organizations
Donate to slow loris conservation programs