The Grey Slender
Loris
(Loris lydekkerianus lydekkerianus)
Morphology & Anatomy
A small-bodied primate characterized by a slender build and long limbs. Their large forward-facing eyes are perfectly adapted for nocturnal vision.
- Avg Length22 - 24 cm
- Male Weight275 - 295 g
- Female Weight260 - 273 g
- Dorsal PelageBuff-grey with dark stripe
- Ventral SideWhite or Pale
24CM
Average Length
Physical Adaptations
The Slender Loris possesses a unique toothcomb and specialized grooming claw for social grooming and personal hygiene. Their moist rhinarium enhances olfactory communication in the forest canopy.
Movement Dynamics
Elongated, slender limbs facilitate precise quadrupedal climbing through fine branches. Unlike other primates, they move with a slow, deliberate 'hand-over-hand' motion that avoids detection.
Protected Status: Schedule I
Safeguarding India's
Least Studied Primate
IUCN Near Threatened
Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List (2024). Major threats include habitat degradation due to deforestation, fuelwood extraction, and road mortality.
Major Challenges
- Habitat degradation & deforestation
- Illegal hunting (traditional medicinal beliefs)
- Road mortality through deciduous forests
- Habitat loss in Karur & Dindigul districts