Lorisidae, from old Dutch loeris (“clown”), in reference to the circles around their that eyes almost resemble clown makeup.

Common names of members

Slow Loris.

Distribution  

Central Africa and Southern and Southeastern Asia.

Size

Depending on the species, they can reach lengths of 17 to 40 cm and weights of 0.3 to 2 kg. 

Morphology

Their fuzzy fur is close to the skin and is often brown or gray, with a deeper tone on top. The big eyes look straight ahead. The tiny ears are frequently covered in fur to some extent. The index finger is short and the thumbs are opposable. Typical of strepsirrhines, the second toe of the hind legs possesses a delicate claw for grooming. They either have short tails or none at all.

Habitat & Ecology

Rainforests.

Diet

Along with fruits and gums, they eat insects, bird eggs, and tiny vertebrates.

Reproduction 

The majority of species either live alone or in small family groupings. They give birth to two young after a four to six month gestation period. These frequently form nests or attach themselves to the mother's stomach as the latter wanders in search of food. Depending on the species, they are weaned at three to nine months and reach full maturity in ten to eighteen months.

Total species known

15

Species in the collection

2

Species in Hong Kong

0

Reference

Cowlishaw, G., Dunbar, R. I. M. (2000). Primate Conservation Biology. University of Chicago Press.

Pough, F. H., Janis, C. M., Heiser, J. B. (2012). Vertebrate Life. Pearson.

Macdonald, D. W. (2006). The Encyclopedia of mammals. Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/acref/9780199206087.001.0001.

Wilson, D. E.; Reeder, D. M. (2005). Mammal Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference. Johns Hopkins University Press.

Sussman, R.W. (2003). Primate Ecology and Social Structure. Pearson Custom Publishing.

Estes, R. D. (1991). The Behavior Guide to African Mammals. University of California Press.