Critically Endangered Bangka Slow Loris Rediscovered In Indonesia After Nearly A Century

Photo Credit: © Andre Septian (Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center)

A critically endangered primate once feared extinct has been confirmed alive on Indonesia’s Bangka Island after decades without scientific documentation, offering renewed hope for the rare species.

The Bangka slow loris, a small, nocturnal primate known for its large eyes and reddish-brown fur, had largely disappeared from scientific records since the 1930s, despite continued encounters by local residents and wildlife rescuers.

According to an October 20 announcement from conservation organization Re:wild⁠, a newly published study in the scientific journal Spixiana⁠ confirms that the species continues to survive in several areas of Bangka Island.

The findings were made possible through the efforts of the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center⁠, which rescued more than 90 Bangka slow lorises between 2015 and 2025. Of those rescued, 86 recovered and were released at seven carefully selected forest sites across the island.

The Bangka slow loris is currently classified as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List⁠.

Despite this encouraging discovery, conservationists warn that the species remains in grave danger due to widespread habitat destruction.

Langka Sani, Director of the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center, explained: “Its natural habitat on Bangka Island has shrunk significantly because of illegal tin mining and massive land clearing for oil palm plantations.”

Human settlements, roads, and power lines pose additional dangers, while slow lorises elsewhere in Asia also face exploitation through the pet trade.

The research, conducted in collaboration with the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center, Haus des Meeres Aqua Terra Zoo⁠ in Vienna, and the Taman Safari Prigen Conservation Breeding Ark⁠, highlights the urgent need for additional population surveys, genetic studies, and stronger habitat protections.

The Bangka slow loris is also among the world’s few venomous mammals and belongs to the only group of primates known to possess venom.

While the species’ future remains uncertain, the dedication of local rescuers has brought renewed hope for its survival, highlighting the importance of protecting endangered wildlife and preserving the remaining forests they call home.