The Denver Zoo recently celebrated the arrival of a new baby Linne’s two-toed sloth, born to proud parents Charlotte and Elliot on April 24, 2024. This is the fourth offspring for the sloth couple, and the latest addition to the zoo’s Tropical Discovery exhibit.
Key Details About the Denver Zoo’s New Baby Sloth
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Parents | Charlotte and Elliot |
Birth Date | April 24, 2024 |
Species | Linne’s Two-Toed Sloth |
Habitat | Tropical Discovery |
Current Status | Healthy and nursing |
Fascinating Facts About Sloths
Sloths are truly unique creatures, and the new arrival at the Denver Zoo is no exception. Here are some interesting facts about these arboreal mammals:
- Size and Weight: Newborn sloths are typically around 10 inches (25 cm) long and weigh between 10-13 ounces (280-364 grams).
- Arboreal Lifestyle: Sloths are perfectly adapted for life in the treetops, with long, curved claws that provide a powerful grip on branches.
- Slow Movement: Sloths are the world’s slowest mammals, moving at a deliberate, hand-over-hand pace along the branches.
- Camouflage: The long fur of sloths often grows algae, giving them a greenish hue that helps them blend seamlessly into the rainforest canopy.
Conservation and Naming
The birth of the new baby sloth is a significant conservation win for the species, which faces threats from habitat loss and hunting in their native South American range.
To celebrate the arrival of the new sloth, the Denver Zoo held a naming contest for the public to submit and vote on potential names. The winning name will be announced in the coming weeks.
Visiting the Denver Zoo
If you’re eager to catch a glimpse of the new baby sloth and its parents, here’s what you need to know about visiting the Denver Zoo:
- Hours and Location: The Denver Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and is located at 2300 Steele St, Denver, CO 80205.
- Admission: General admission prices vary by age and residency, so be sure to check the Denver Zoo website for current rates.
- Membership: Becoming a member of the Denver Zoo provides a year of perks, including free admission and access to special events.
Don’t miss your chance to see the newest addition to the Denver Zoo’s Tropical Discovery exhibit. This baby sloth is sure to captivate visitors with its endearing slow-paced antics and adorable appearance.
References
- Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Linne’s Two-toed Sloth. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/animals/linnes-two-toed-sloth/
- 9News. (2024, April 24). Here’s the first look at Colorado zoo’s new baby sloth. Retrieved from https://www.9news.com/article/life/animals/sloth-denver-zoo-baby/73-18da9419-e5ca-42f0-af6b-0f7ad90c776b
- Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Baby Sloth Naming Contest. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/baby-sloth-naming-contest/
- Denver7. (2024, April 24). Baby sloth born at Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.denver7.com/news/positive-news/baby-sloth-born-at-denver-zoo
- CBS News. (2024, April 24). Denver Zoo welcomes Linne’s two-toed sloth pup to parents Charlotte and Elliot. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/denver-zoo-welcomes-linnes-two-toed-sloth-pup-parents-charlotte-elliot/