Linne's Two-Toed Sloth
Linne’s two-toed sloths are slow-moving, tree-dwelling creatures native to the cloud and rainforests of northern South America. These arboreal browsers (leaf-eaters) are well-known for their incredibly slow metabolism and low body temperature, making them one of the most unique animals in the mammal world.
Sloths are famous for their sluggish pace, which is due to their slow metabolism. They are so slow that algae often grows in their fur, creating a greenish hue that helps them blend into the trees. This slow movement is actually an adaptation that allows them to conserve energy in their low-calorie diet of leaves.
Sloths also have one of the lowest body temperatures of any mammal and can’t thermoregulate like most animals. This means that their body temperature can drop to match the environmental temperature around them! To stay safe, they remain high in the trees, coming down only once a week to urinate and defecate—a rare and vulnerable moment for them, as predators like jaguars pose a threat on the ground.
Though the Linne’s two-toed sloth is considered a common species, their populations are under threat from habitat fragmentation due to deforestation, the illegal pet trade, and vehicle collisions. Their incredibly specialized needs make them poor pets and difficult to care for, but with proper protection, they can thrive in the wild. We are proud to be part of the Linne’s two-toed sloth Species Survival Plan to help ensure their future through responsible breeding programs.
Meet Sweet Pea and Grover
At the zoo, we care for two sloths: Sweet Pea and Grover. These adorable creatures are fed a high-fiber diet that includes zoo primate biscuits, romaine lettuce, yams, and carrots. They love to spend their days sleeping on resting platforms, climbing vines, and relaxing in nesting materials and hammocks—perfect for their laid-back lifestyle.