Definition & Meaning of "loris"

What is a "loris"?

The loris is a unique primate species found in Southeast Asia and Africa, known for their slow and deliberate movements, small size, large round eyes, and nocturnal behavior. They have a distinct appearance characterized by their dense fur, elongated fingers, and a vestigial thumb. Lorises are arboreal animals that are well adapted for their arboreal lifestyle, with specialized adaptations for climbing and grasping. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, small animals, and fruits. Lorises are known for their secretive nature and unique behaviors, such as their ability to produce venom from their glands as a form of defense. They are intriguing and enigmatic primates that play important roles in their ecosystems.