Venomous Primate Lost to Science for 90 Years Rediscovered in Indonesia

The Bangka slow loris, a venomous primate that scientists had not seen for nearly 90 years, has been rediscovered in Indonesia, researchers announced. This elusive nocturnal creature, believed to be extinct since 1937, has been found inhabiting surprising urban and suburban environments on Bangka Island, east of Sumatra.

The species, the world's only group of venom-packing primates, was rediscovered between 2015 and 2025 through studies documenting over 90 individuals. Astonishingly, many of these lorises were found in residential backyards, along roadsides, and even on power lines. Local residents alerted the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center to the presence of the animals, many of which were injured from encounters with electrical wires or dogs.

The rescue organization successfully rehabilitated and released 86 of the lorises back into the wild. Researchers expressed surprise at the primate's ability to remain hidden in plain sight for so long.

"What I find particularly astonishing is that such a charismatic and distinctive primate has received so little scientific attention for nearly a century," said Timon Glaw, a graduate student in nature conservation at the Haus des Meeres Aqua Terra Zoo in Vienna and an author of the study. Glaw added that the rediscovery offers hope that other species thought to be extinct might still exist in overlooked areas.

The Bangka slow loris is a small primate, measuring about 10 inches in length, and is more closely related to lemurs than monkeys. Its venom, activated by licking a gland on its arm, is potent enough to cause anaphylactic shock in humans, though it is primarily used in social grooming and defense among its own kind.

Despite its rediscovery, the Bangka slow loris remains critically endangered due to habitat loss. Its natural environment has been significantly reduced by illegal tin mining and extensive land clearing for oil palm plantations. The species is listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List.

Conservationists emphasize that rediscovery is only the first step. A long-term conservation strategy, including further studies, surveys, and habitat protection, is deemed essential to prevent the species from facing extinction again.