There are three proposed subspecies of Perodicticus potto , but we will consider them one species until further study can clarify the taxonomy. Brown with tan ears. Infants cling to their mother's belly when first born, but quickly descend to a branch or nest where they remain hidden while their mother is foraging. Young leave their mother's home range at approximately six months of age.
Pottos are cryptic, slow-moving animals who forage alone throughout the night.
Male territories often overlap those of several females. Like many nocturnal prosimians, pottos leave urine marks to communicate territory and reproductive status. When threatened, a potto will put its head between its front legs and present these spines to the attacker. If this strategy is not enough to deter the attacker, a potto will lift its head and lunge towards the source of the threat. Potto are found in Coastal West Africa and Central Africa.