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Sloth

Choloepus didactylus

The Sloth is never in a hurry. It is only awake six hours a day and moves very slowly with a speed of just some 0.14 km/h.

The Sloth has, nevertheless, survived in the rainforest for millions of years. That is because
it is skilled at hiding from other animals. Its slow movements are difficult to spot and during the rainy season it lets algae grow on its body turning it green so that it blends into the forest.

The Sloth, furthermore, only defecates once a week. This is because it has to get down to
the ground first where it is vulnerable. Here, it covers its faeces before climbing back to safety

Food
Flowers, leaves and fruit
Originates
South America
Life expectancy
20-30 years
IUCN-status
Least concern (LC)