Abilene Zoo Introduces Rare Pygmy Slow Loris

The Abilene Zoo has added a pygmy slow loris named Warble to its nocturnal animal collection.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Wildlife

Abilene Zoo Introduces Rare Pygmy Slow Loris

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The Abilene Zoo recently acquired a pygmy slow loris named Warble. The animal is now housed in the facility's nocturnal area.

Why it matters

The pygmy slow loris is the only known venomous primate species in the world. Its unique biological defense mechanism involves secreting oil from elbow glands that creates a toxin when mixed with saliva.

The pygmy slow loris is categorized as the only known venomous primate species. Its toxins are produced when specialized oil secretions from elbow glands are mixed with saliva.

The players

Abilene Zoo

This facility is a major regional institution that houses a diverse collection of animals and provides educational programming for the community.

Warble

Warble is a pygmy slow loris that has recently joined the collection at the Abilene Zoo.

The details

Warble is currently being acclimated to the Abilene Zoo's nocturnal area before being showcased to the public. The animal is entirely nocturnal, requiring specialized lighting conditions within its enclosure.

Warble will be on public exhibit from October 31, 2026, to November 1, 2026.

Culture Shift

This addition follows the conservation management standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan for small primate populations. Zoos are increasingly focusing on the exhibition of rare, nocturnal species to promote greater public engagement with biodiversity.

Residents can view Warble at the nocturnal exhibit during upcoming holiday celebrations. The inclusion of this unique species offers visitors a chance to see a rare primate while learning about its unusual defensive traits.

The takeaway

Visitors to the Abilene Zoo can catch a glimpse of this nocturnal primate during the Boo at the Zoo and Dia de los Muertos celebrations. Attendees should note that the exhibit area is specially lit to accommodate the loris's natural behavior.