Indonesian slow loris still thrives despite extinction fears

A rare, venomous primate once thought extinct has been rediscovered on Indonesia’s Bangka Island, challenging previous assessments of its survival.

The Bangka slow loris (*Nycticebus bancanus*), native to Borneo and Bangka, was classified as critically endangered and possibly extinct by the IUCN in 2015. Its last documented sighting in scientific records dated back to 1937, leaving scientists baffled for nearly a century.

A recent study, however, found evidence of the species’ persistence. Researchers analyzed over 90 lorises rescued by the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center, including those found in backyards, roadsides, and plantations. These animals were reported by local communities, suggesting the species has never truly vanished.

In 2021 alone, the center rescued 43 lorises, with 39 successfully mapped across all four districts of Bangka, including the island’s largest city, Pangkalpinang. This indicates the species remains widespread, despite ongoing threats.

Human activities pose severe risks to the lorises. Seven rescued animals suffered electrical burns in 2021, while others died from vehicle collisions, attacks by domestic dogs, or entanglement in fences. Habitat loss—driven by illegal mining and oil palm expansion—has reduced their forest homes by 62% since 2000.

Despite these challenges, 86 rescued lorises that recovered were released into protected forest fragments. Conservationists argue these efforts show the species’ resilience and urge a reassessment of its IUCN status to remove the ‘possibly extinct’ label.

Experts also call for stronger habitat protections, tracking of released animals, and an ex-situ breeding program to ensure long-term survival. Protecting Bangka’s remaining ecosystems could also benefit other lesser-known species facing similar threats.