Newly discovered slow loris species already threatened

[xchrom]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/dec/14/newly-discovered-slow-loris-species-borneo?intcmp=122


The newly identified species of slow loris, Nycticebus kayan. Photograph: Duke Lemur Center / David Haring / Ch'ien C Lee

A new species of primate, a "big-eyed" and venomous slow loris, has been identified in Borneo by researchers.

But the new loris is already under threat from the Asian pet trade in part because its "teddy-bear face" make it attractive for illegal poaching, the team of UK and US scientists said.

Analysing the facial markings of slow loris in the Indonesia island, the researchers concluded that the nocturnal Nycticebus kayan is new to science, and two others that were previously considered sub-species should be recognised as unique species in their own right.

The lemur-like slow loris is found across south-east Asia, and is notable for having a toxic bite – a rarity among primates. But the species are listed as vulnerable or endangered by the gold-standard IUCN Red List of threatened wildlife.

[Baitball Blogger]

1. Of course. Discovery, destruction of habitat.

Isn't that the process?

[wandy]

2. Let's see if I understand this......

This critter has a venomous bite and is endangered because it's "teddy-bear face" makes it an attractive pet.
OK. Sure. Anything you say.
Just make sure to update the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy about this little fellow.

[Eugene]

3. A venomnous pet?

If they say so...