WASHINGTON — The Smithsonian National Zoo has something to celebrate. For the very first time, pygmy slow loris babies were born at the zoo. The two new babies are an endangered species.
On March 21, Small Mammal House keepers reported for duty and observed that 3-year-old mother Naga had given birth overnight and was caring for two infants. She and the babies’ 2-year-old father, Pabu, received a recommendation to breed from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). These babies are the first offspring for both parents.
Zoo officials say both babies appear to be healthy. Their sexes remain undetermined at this time, and will be revealed at their first vet exam in a few months
Native to Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Vietnam, pygmy slow lorises live in evergreen forests. Their greatest threats are deforestation and the illegal pet trade. Much of their habitat has been cleared for the logging industry; they spend the majority of their time 10 to 40 feet up in the forest canopy. The International Union for Conservation of Nature considers pygmy slow lorises endangered.
Slow lorises are also the only known venomous primates. They can produce a painful bite, allergic reaction and a slow-healing wound. Wild slow lorises do not use it against predators because the venom is not fast-acting. Instead, the venom is used in territorial disputes with other slow lorises. They also groom themselves with the venom to ward off parasites and warn predators to stay away.
The whole family of pygmy slow loris is currently on view at the Small Mammal House. Keepers say the babies are most active in the late morning and early afternoon.
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