Zoo Atlanta births third Hoffmann's two-toed sloth
Nutella and Cocoa's newest offspring, born on Oct. 30, is the third child produced under a genetic management plan.
By Jack Thompson ·
The infant Hoffmann's two-toed sloth was born on Oct. 30, making it the third offspring produced by the zoo's breeding pair. Zoo Atlanta identified the newborn as part of a genetic management effort endorsed by the Association of Zooks and Aquariums.
The pair, consisting of female Nutella and male Cocoa, was recommended for breeding to maintain healthy and genetically diverse populations across accredited institutions. The birth concludes a gestation period that typically lasts 11 to 12 months, a duration that is unusually long for an animal of this size.
Newborn sloths arrive fully furred with open eyes and developed teeth. They possess sharp claws specifically adapted for clinging to their mothers immediately after birth. These physical traits allow the infants to spend nearly all their time in trees, where they perform most activities, including eating, in an inverted position.
Gina Ferrie, vice president of collections and conservation, stated that the zoo is excited to welcome the new addition. She noted that sloths offer a chance to share conservation stories that help guests appreciate the impact of human activities on wildlife.
Although Hoffmann's two-toed sloths are not currently classified as endangered, the species faces growing threats in Central and South America. Habitat loss from illegal logging is a primary concern, and Zoo Atlanta reported that hundreds of sloths are electrocuted each year while attempting to travel between fragmented forest areas using power lines.
The infant is not currently visible to the public outdoors because tropical sloths cannot tolerate cooler temperatures. Zoo Atlanta expects the animal to join Nutella in their outdoor habitat this spring.
