Linne's Two-toed Sloth
Choloepus didactylus
Here at Banham Zoo
Meet Arlo and Rowan, our male and female Linne's two-toed sloths! Arlo has called Banham Zoo home since 2021, after arriving from Amazon World on the Isle of Wight. Rowan is our newest addition, joining us in June 2024. We've since discovered that her favourite foods are sweet potato and parsnips depending on her mood!
Linne's two-toed sloths are native to the tropical rainforests of South America. They get their name from their two long claws, unlike other sloth species, which have three. Although they move at a leisurely 0.02 km/h, they are surprisingly strong swimmers, moving up to three times faster in water than on land. Their slow movement helps conserve energy, as their plant-based diet is low in nutrients and difficult to digest.
Where Do I Live?
South America
This species of sloth is found in tropical rainforests in northern South America. They are arboreal, spending most of their time up in the trees - in fact they only come down to change feeding trees or to defecate!
What Do I Eat?
They feed mainly on fruits and small twigs. They possess cellulose-digesting bacteria in their multi-chambered stomachs, which aids their slow digestion!
How Do I Breed?
As well as eating, sleeping and mating these sloths actually give birth hanging upside down! Females will have one young after around a 6 month pregnancy.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Least Concern (LC)
Lowest risk of endangerment.
These sloths are not considered endangered, however they are affected by deforestation for agriculture, logging and mining.
Tropical House Experience
Step behind the scenes for an exclusive 60-minute Tropical House Experience, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to explore our Tropical House in a private setting, after it has closed to the public.
Find Out More
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Linne's Two-toed Sloth
located?
Our
Linne's Two-toed Sloth
is located in our
Explorer Zone
, map reference
8
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
