Animal Profiles
Mammals

Sloth

Folivora (within order Pilosa)

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Sloths are tree-dwelling mammals. This account focuses on the brown-throated three-toed sloth (Bradypus variegatus), a leaf-eater of tropical America.

Bradypus variegatus (sloth)

Representative species: Bradypus variegatus.

At a glance

Location
The brown-throated three-toed sloth inhabits forest canopies in southern Central America and South America. These details describe that species, rather than every sloth.
Habitat
Rainforest
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Leaves, flowers and fruit provide its food and much of its water.

Classification

Common name
Sloth
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Folivora (within order Pilosa)
Source classification
Mammalia

Three things to know

  • Algae can give its coat a greenish tint.
  • It can swim.
  • Its forefeet have three clawed digits.

Habitat and range

The brown-throated three-toed sloth inhabits forest canopies in southern Central America and South America. These details describe that species, rather than every sloth.

Appearance and adaptations

Long forelimbs and curved claws support life among branches. A brown throat distinguishes this species, while algae can grow on its outer fur.

Diet and behaviour

Leaves, flowers and fruit provide its food and much of its water. It spends little time on the ground. Individuals rest suspended in trees and are generally solitary.

Sources

Explore mammals

Browse all mammals