Zoo Animals

Zoo Slow Loris Trade Prevention and Welfare

Slow lorises are targeted by the illegal exotic pet trade and require strong zoo and legislative protection.

Key Facts

Slow lorises are the only known venomous primate, producing brachial gland secretions
Illegal trade is driven by social media videos of slow lorises kept as pets
Pet trade lorises have their teeth clipped, causing pain, infection and inability to feed properly
CITES Appendix I listing prohibits international commercial trade in slow lorises
Reputable zoos participate in slow loris rescue and rehabilitation programmes

Welfare Considerations

The illegal slow loris pet trade causes severe suffering through tooth clipping, inappropriate diet, social isolation and stress from human handling. Zoos play a critical role in rehabilitation, education and legislative advocacy. Supporting legitimate conservation programmes and refusing to share pet trade videos breaks demand cycles.

What You Can Do

Never share or like social media videos of slow lorises as pets
Report suspected illegal slow loris sales to TRAFFIC or local wildlife crime units
Support Little Fireface Project's conservation and education programmes
Visit and support accredited zoos with slow loris conservation breeding programmes