Sloth

Folivora

Least Concern

Sloths are fascinating arboreal mammals known for their slow movements and unique adaptations to life in the trees. They belong to the suborder Folivora and are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Sloths have long limbs and curved claws that allow them to hang effortlessly from branches. Their fur is often host to algae, which provides camouflage and a greenish tint that helps them blend into the canopy. Sloths are primarily nocturnal and spend most of their time sleeping, up to 15-20 hours a day. They are solitary creatures, coming together only for mating. Interestingly, sloths have a low metabolic rate and a specialized stomach that allows them to digest tough leaves, which form the bulk of their diet. Despite their slow pace, sloths are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for up to 40 minutes. There are two main types of sloths: two-toed and three-toed, each with distinct characteristics. Conservation efforts are crucial for sloths, as habitat destruction poses a significant threat to their survival.

Quick Facts

Habitat: Tropical Rainforests
Diet: Herbivore

Fun Facts

Sloths are so slow that algae can grow on their fur, giving them a greenish tint that helps them blend into the trees!
These tree-dwelling mammals only come down to the ground about once a week to go to the bathroom.
Sloths have an incredibly slow metabolism, which means they can take up to a month to digest a single meal!
Despite their sluggish pace, sloths are surprisingly good swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for up to 40 minutes.
Sloths have a unique neck structure that allows them to turn their heads up to 270 degrees, giving them a wide field of vision.
Their long, curved claws are perfect for hanging from branches, allowing them to sleep while suspended upside down.
Sloths have a symbiotic relationship with the moths and beetles that live in their fur, which helps fertilize the algae they eat.

Test Your Knowledge

See how much you know about Sloth!

Which of the following is a major threat to sloth populations?
What is the primary diet of sloths?
How many hours a day do sloths typically sleep?