Exudates and animal prey characterize slow loris (Nycticebus pygmaeus, N. Coucang and N. Javanicus) diet in captivity and after release into the wild

Abstract

We present dietary data for individuals of three species of slow loris rescued from the pet trade: Nycticebus pygmaeus released and radio-tracked in Vietnam and N. coucang and N. javanicus held in captivity in Indonesia. Contrary to popular belief that slow lorises are frugivores, our data support recent studies that slow lorises are one of few primates specialized for regular extractive gouging of plant exudates, and capable of consuming insect prey containing secondary compounds. These behaviors are present in juveniles as young as 4 months. This specialized diet should be considered when maintaining captive individuals, and when planning reintroduction programs.