New study warns that releasing rescued slow lorises into the wild can create a deadly death trap

A new study shows that only 2 out of 9 rescued slow lorises survived release in Bangladesh, with most killed in territorial attacks by other venomous lorises.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 4, 2026, 8:56 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Anglia Ruskin University

The risks of wildlife translocation

A scientific study published in the journal Global Ecology and Conservation has challenged the assumption that returning rescued wildlife to their natural habitats is an inherent conservation success. Researchers tracking Bengal slow lorises in Bangladesh discovered that the transition from captivity to the forest can be remarkably perilous. The findings suggest that without proper ecological assessment, release programs may inadvertently lead animals into fatal territorial conflicts, effectively turning protected areas into "death traps" for newcomers.

Slow lorises and the illegal trade

Slow lorises are frequently targeted by the illegal pet trade due to their distinctive large eyes and perceived gentle appearance. This demand has made them some of the most heavily trafficked primates globally. Currently, all species of slow loris are categorized as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. While rescue operations are common, the subsequent release of these animals is often conducted without the long-term monitoring necessary to ensure their survival.

Stark survival rates in Bangladesh

The research team, including experts from Plumploris e.V. and the University of Western Australia, fitted nine Bengal slow lorises with radio collars before releasing them into a national park in northeastern Bangladesh. The results were concerning: only two of the nine animals survived the study period. Three individuals died within the first ten days of release, and four others perished within six months. The two survivors were those that traveled across larger areas, likely avoiding the established territories of resident lorises.