Three-Toed Sloth
Bradypus
Overview
Three-toed sloths are arboreal Neotropical mammals that inhabit the rainforests of Central and South America. They are famous for being the slowest mammals on Earth.
Fun Fact
Sloths move so slowly that algae grows on their fur, providing them with a green camouflage in the treetops.
Physical Characteristics
Small rounded heads, large eyes, and long limbs. They have three curved claws on each foot.
Behavior & Ecology
Extremely slow movements to conserve energy. They spend most of their lives hanging upside down.
Diet & Hunting Strategy
They eat almost exclusively leaves, which are tough to digest. Their stomach has multiple compartments and takes weeks to process a single meal.
Reproduction & Life Cycle
Females give birth to a single infant once a year. The baby clings to the mother for up to six months.
Human Interaction
Popular for their 'smiling' faces, they are often used to promote forest conservation.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Three-Toed Sloth?
The scientific name of the Three-Toed Sloth is Bradypus.
Where does the Three-Toed Sloth live?
Canopies of tropical rainforests.
What does the Three-Toed Sloth eat?
Herbivore (Folivore). They eat almost exclusively leaves, which are tough to digest. Their stomach has multiple compartments and takes weeks to process a single meal.
How long does the Three-Toed Sloth live?
The lifespan of the Three-Toed Sloth is approximately 25-30 years..
