Bangka slow loris thought extinct found alive on Indonesian island

Scientists have confirmed that the Bangka slow loris, a venomous nocturnal primate listed as critically endangered and possibly extinct, still inhabits Indonesia's Bangka Island. Between 2015 and 2025, the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center rescued more than 90 individuals from various parts of the island, many of which were later released after treatment. The animals were found in gardens, houses, plantations and near roads, with some suffering injuries from electrical wires.

Researchers highlight that the species persists despite severe habitat loss caused by tin mining and oil-palm development. They call for urgent protection of remaining forest patches and systematic surveys to assess population sizes. The discovery offers hope that other “lost” species may also survive unnoticed.