Sloth

on December 9, 2010

Both species of sloth have long forearms and strong hind limbs.

Design

Sloth

Both species of sloth have long forearms and strong hind limbs. These features are perfectly designed for climbing and living in trees. Much of the sloth’s fur is covered by a type of algae. This algae helps camouflage the animal while it is in the trees.

Features

  • Sloths vary in color from gray and tan to dark brown. They have long, shaggy fur that points to the ground when the sloth is hanging upside down. This allows rain water to be easily shed from their fur, keeping them dry. Some sloths even have thicker hair around the neck, which forms a mane.
  • The hair of sloths grows in the opposite direction of most other mammals: from the stomach to the back.

Fun Facts

  • Sloths spend most of theirs lives hanging upside down in trees. They eat, sleep, and give birth while upside down.
  • Sloths get their name from their extremely slow movements while on the ground and in trees.

Created Kind Members

Three-toed sloth, ground sloth

CLASS: Mammalia (mammal)
ORDER: Xenarthra (strange-jointed)
FAMILY: Megalonychidae and Bradypodidae (three-toed and two-toed)
GENUS/SPECIES: 5 different species within the two families—Bradypus and Choloepus

Size: Both genera about 1.6 ft (0.5 m)
Weight: Bradypus: 6.5–11 lbs (3–5 kg); Choloepus: 20 lbs (9 kg)
Original Diet: Plants
Present Diet: Plants
Habitat: Forests of Central and South America

Zoo Guide

Make your next visit to the zoo more than just fun—make it factual and fascinating too! You could even start a personal “creation zoo tours” ministry. Featuring more than 100 animals, our long-awaited Zoo Guide includes beautiful pictures and explores the amazing facts and design features that point to our awesome Creator. Excellent gift for any one who loves animals!

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