Sloth

Bradypus variegatus

Sloths are slow-moving tree-dwelling mammals native to the rainforests of Central and South America. They move at around 0.3 km/h (0.2 mph) and sleep up to 15 to 20 hours a day to conserve energy on a low-calorie leaf diet. Wild sloths typically live around 20 years.

Scientific name

Bradypus variegatus

Diet

Herbivore (folivore)

Habitat

Tropical rainforest canopy

Lifespan

Around 20 years in the wild

Weight

3.5–6 kg (8–13 lb)

Read the full Sloth guide