Indonesian scientists confirm presence of Bornean slow loris on Bangka Island

Indonesian scientists confirmed that the Bornean slow loris (Nycticebus bancanus) lives on Bangka Island, a location where the species was thought to have vanished nearly a century ago.

Local residents frequently see these primates near houses, roads, and power lines, which prompted new scientific investigation into the population. The research team verified the existence of the primates through data collected from more than 90 rescued individuals. The "Alobi" Wildlife Rescue Center assisted in these efforts.

Previously, scientific records lacked any mention of these encounters, leading experts to believe the species had gone extinct in the region. The Bornean slow loris remains at risk due to habitat loss from tin mining, palm oil plantations, and infrastructure construction. Illegal trade in exotic animals also threatens the species. Scientists recommend protecting natural habitats, supervised releases of rescued animals, and captive breeding programs to conserve the population and improve knowledge about these venomous primates.