Slow Loris: Why These Primates Should Not Be Kept in Zoos or as Pets

Slow lorises are illegally traded as exotic pets and sometimes displayed in poor conditions in zoos. Their complex needs make captivity profoundly harmful in most settings.

Key Facts

Slow lorises (genus Nycticebus) are the only venomous primates — their bites can cause anaphylactic shock in humans
Illegal pet trade involves removing or cutting their teeth with nail clippers — a painful procedure causing infection and death
Slow lorises are nocturnal insectivores with specialized diets including gums, nectars, and invertebrates that are very difficult to replicate
Their natural range spans South and Southeast Asia; all 8 species are listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered
Slow lorises in captivity frequently develop metabolic bone disease, obesity, and psychological disorders from inadequate care
Viral videos of slow lorises being tickled are animal cruelty — the raised arms indicate a fear response, not enjoyment

Welfare Considerations

Slow lorises are among the worst animals to keep in captivity due to their highly specialized ecological needs, nocturnal lifestyle, and extreme sensitivity to stress and improper diet. Even well-resourced zoos struggle to provide adequate conditions. In the illegal pet trade, tooth removal — performed without anesthesia — is standard practice and results in high mortality. Animals that survive frequently develop infections, nutritional deficiencies, and profound behavioral abnormalities. Reputable welfare organizations universally oppose slow loris keeping in private hands, and most accredited zoos have phased out slow lorises from collections. Social media sharing of slow loris videos drives demand for illegal trade.

What You Can Do

Never share or like videos of slow lorises as pets — report them to platforms as illegal wildlife content
Support the Little Fireface Project and other slow loris conservation and rehabilitation organizations
Report suspected slow loris trade on social media to the Wildlife Justice Commission
Advocate for stronger enforcement of CITES trade bans on primates
Support habitat protection programs in slow loris range countries including Indonesia and Vietnam