Two Toed Sloth
Choloepus
Class: Mammalia Order: Pilosa Family: Choloepodidae
Size
Height: 20-26 in.
Weight: 8-20 lbs
Lifespan
20-40 years
Diet
These herbivores feed on leaves, buds, tender twigs, young plant shoots, fruits, and flowers.
Habitat & Range
The range of the Two-Toed sloth stretches through Central America and northern South America as well as parts of Brazil and Peru.
Interesting Facts
The structure of the Two-Toed sloth's fur enhances algae growth. The algae that grows on their fur is highly beneficial, serving as a camouflage to hide them from predators. In addition, these animals are likely to get nutrients by licking the algae or absorbing it through their skin.
The scientific name “Choloepus”, meaning “lame foot” in Greek, refers to the extreme slowness of the animal. When on the ground, sloths usually move at a speed of 6.5 ft per minute. When in trees, these animals are a bit faster, moving 10 ft per minute.
The stomach of this animal consists of 4 parts. The digestion process is very slow and may take as long as 1 month to digest a meal of leaves. Due to the long digestive process, sloths get very little energy. Sloths sleep as much as 15-20 hours a day.
Conservation Status
Least Concern
