Sloth Populations
As some sources report that there are as few as 50 pygmy three-toed sloths left, these animals are classified by the IUCN as critically endangered. This is over a 40% decrease in the population since 2013 (AWI 2020). However, bioGraphic.com notes that technology used to track these sloth populations, such as cameras, are rather ineffective, so there fortunately may be as many as 500-1500 of them (2018).
Photo: Joel Sartore, National Geographic
Where They Live
Pygmy three-toed sloths are endemic to Escudo de Veragua, an island located off the coast of Panama (Animal Welfare Institute 2020). On this island, they typically reside in mangroves (pictured to the left). These sloths can also be found in the tropical forests around Escudo (EDGE of Existence 2017).
Image (Above): Screenshot directly from Google Maps.
The red pin indicates the location of Escudo de Veraguas off the coast of Panama.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
+ IMPORTANT CHARACTERISTICS
Pygmy sloths are about 40% smaller than regular species of sloths. But similarly to normal sloths, they are extremely slow movers, moving an average of only 120 feet per day (bioGraphic 2018). This makes them an evolutionary target, as predators may approach them on the ground. In order to survive, these sloths feed on the leaves of the mangrove trees they live in. Therefore, logging is an obstacle to their dietary routines and needs (bioGraphic 2018). Fifteen to twenty hours of their day are spent sleeping. Additionally, female sloths produce one offspring per year, after a six month gestation period. Mothers spend the next six months after giving birth, preparing its baby to be on its own (World Wildlife Fund).
(Above): Mother & Baby Bonding
Taken by: Suzy Eszterhas, bioGraphic
Credit: Nature on PBS