Slow lorises, with their large eyes and seemingly gentle demeanor, might appear harmless, but possess a unique and dangerous defense mechanism. These primates are one of the few venomous mammals on Earth, and their bite can severely harm humans. While not every bite is fatal, the venom can trigger life-threatening reactions.
Unveiling the Venom Mechanism
Slow lorises produce their venom through a specialized brachial gland on their upper arm. This gland secretes a toxic oil, activated when the loris mixes it with its saliva. The combination of this oil and saliva creates a potent venom.
The slow loris delivers venom by licking the gland and then biting an aggressor, allowing the venomous saliva to enter the wound. This unique delivery method is rare among mammals.
The Dangers of a Slow Loris Bite
A slow loris bite can result in a range of symptoms, from localized discomfort to severe systemic reactions. Initial effects often include intense pain and significant swelling at the bite site. In some cases, the wound can fester, indicating tissue damage or necrosis.
The most concerning danger is the potential for anaphylactic shock, a severe and rapid allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. This occurs because the slow loris venom contains a protein that is similar to a common cat allergen. Individuals sensitive to cat dander may experience a more severe allergic response to the loris venom.
Documented cases show humans experiencing severe anaphylactic shock following a slow loris bite, including instances believed to be fatal. The severity of the reaction depends on an individual’s sensitivity and the amount of venom delivered.
Why Bites Occur and the Risks to Humans
Slow lorises use their venomous bite as a defensive mechanism when they feel threatened. When alarmed, they may raise their arms to expose their brachial glands, lick the secretions, and then deliver a bite. This posture, often misinterpreted as a desire to be tickled, is actually a defensive stance.
Bites also occur during territorial disputes between lorises, where the venom can be transferred during altercations. The illegal pet trade increases the risk of human exposure to these bites. Slow lorises are often captured from the wild and sold as exotic pets, despite their endangered status.
In captivity, these animals are stressed, making them more prone to biting. Some traders may even remove their teeth to prevent bites, leading to severe health issues and often death for the animals. Keeping slow lorises as pets is not only harmful to the animals but also poses a direct health risk to humans due to their venomous nature.