Activists Seek Second Slender Loris Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu

Environmental activists are requesting the Tamil Nadu government establish a second sanctuary for the endangered Grey Slender Loris. The primate species is found in Melur taluk, Madurai district, specifically in areas like Kesampatti and Pattur. Researchers documented 194 Slender Loris in the region during a four-month study.

The Forest Department installed warning signs on the Kesampatti Highway after activists reported numerous deaths from road accidents over three years. Despite existing protections under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and one established sanctuary in Kadavur-Ayyalur, activists say the species faces critical threats from habitat loss and climate change.

Jeeva, a local activist, is urging the government to create a new sanctuary encompassing Kesampatti, Sekkipatti, Pattur, Kambur, Pulippatti, and Melavalavu, with Kesampatti serving as its headquarters. He sent a request to the Secretary of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests.