The growing environmental concerns have recently stirred the attention of environmentalists who are now demanding that Tamil Nadu’s Kadavur Reserve Forest be declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary. This call for conservation has been made primarily to protect the population of ‘Slender Loris’ (Loris tardigradus), an endangered species. A wildlife census conducted from 2016-17 indicated around 3,500 slender lorises inhabiting the Karur Reserve Forest.
About Slender Loris
Originating from India and Sri Lanka, the Slender Loris (Loris) represents a unique genus of loris. They are mostly arboreal creatures, living in the dense canopy of trees and traveling on their tops with slow, careful movements. Their diet is diverse, ranging from insects and reptiles to plant shoots and fruit.
Habitat
A variety of habitats accommodate these creatures, from tropical rainforests and scrub forests to semi-deciduous forests and swamps.
Species
The genus ‘Loris’ consists of two distinct species: Red Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus) and Grey Slender Loris (Loris lydekkerianus).
Threats to Existence
Unfortunately, slender lorises face numerous threats, both from illegal activities such as smuggling and from destructive environmental changes. It is widely believed these creatures possess medicinal properties, which leads to their capture and illegal sale in various markets. The unauthorized pet trade also poses a significant threat, with many being illicitly smuggled. Additional hazards include habitat loss, electrocution from live wires, and road accidents, which have severely impacted population numbers.
Protection Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorizes them as Endangered. Within the Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972, the slender loris is listed under Schedule I. They are also listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Kadavur Reserve Forest
Located in the Karur district of Tamil Nadu, the Kadavur Reserve Forest spans an area of approximately 6000 hectares. The landscape includes hills and intensely dry areas. Other than the slender loris, numerous other animals reside within this forest, such as the Indian Bison, Spotted Deer, Mouse Deer, Jackal, Mongoose, Black Naped Hare, Wild Boar, Porcupine, Monitor Lizard, Pangolin, Monkeys, and Pythons.
Major Protected Areas in Tamil Nadu
A host of protected areas have been put in place within Tamil Nadu to safeguard the region’s rich biodiversity. These critical habitats continue to be a primary focus for environmental conservation initiatives within the state.
