Sloth

Sloths are arboreal mammals of the Neotropical forests of Central and South America, known for their slow movement and hanging posture in trees.

Sloths are arboreal mammals native to the Neotropical forests of Central and South America. They are best known for their slow movement and hanging posture in trees. Living sloths are grouped into two families—two-toed and three-toed sloths—with six extant species recognized by major references. These animals are primarily folivores, feeding mostly on leaves and other plant matter.

Classification

Sloths are mammals in the order Pilosa and suborder Folivora. They are part of the xenarthran lineage and are closely related to anteaters, not to primates.

Species and families

Living sloths are commonly divided into two families: two-toed sloths and three-toed sloths. Major references recognize six extant species, including species such as Hoffmann’s two-toed sloth and several three-toed sloths.

Habitat and behaviour

Sloths live in tropical forests of Central and South America and spend most of their lives in trees. They are known for slow movement, hanging upside down, and spending much of their time resting or feeding in the canopy.

Diet and adaptations

Sloths are mainly folivores, eating leaves and sometimes fruits, shoots, flowers, or sap. Their slow metabolism and tree-based lifestyle are linked to their low-energy diet and arboreal adaptations.