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Lorisidae

primate family
Also known as: Loridae

Quick Summary

The family Lorisidae encompasses several species of slow-moving, nocturnal, arboreal primates found in Africa and Asia. These primates include lorises, pottos, and galagos (bush babies).1234

Key Characteristics:
* Appearance: They typically have soft fur, large eyes often surrounded by dark patches, and short or absent tails. Many have specialized digits, such as reduced second or third fingers and toes.124
* Locomotion: Lorisidae are known for their deliberate movements through trees, often hanging by their feet.124
* Diet: Their diet is generally omnivorous, consisting of fruits, insects, small animals, and tree exudates (gum).125
* Defense: Some species, like the Javan slow loris, possess venomous bites as a defense mechanism.2

These primates face threats from habitat loss and the pet trade, leading to many species being classified as vulnerable or endangered.2

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