Main Characteristics

Maned Three-Toed Sloths have a body length between 45 and 50 cms (18 - 20 inches), a tail length between 4 and 5 cms (1.5 - 2 inches) and they weigh between 3.5 and 4 kgs (7.75 - 8.75 lbs).

They have long, coarse fur that is dark brown and pale in colour and they have a dark mane around their head and neck. They have a small head, tiny eyes and ears and a small tail hidden in their fur. They have three long, hook-clawed toes on each of their front feet.

They move extremely slowly and spend a large portion of their time hanging upside down. They only descend from the tree canopy to move to a different tree or to defecate. Maned Three-Toed Sloths are good swimmers but do not move well on the ground.

Habitat

Maned Three-Toed Sloths are found in the tropical rainforests of eastern Brazil. They are arboreal and solitary with home ranges being up to 16 acres.

Diet

Maned Three-Toed Sloths feed on variety of leaves, buds and soft twigs.

Breeding

After a gestation period of 5 - 6 months, Maned Three-Toed Sloths give birth to a single youngster. At birth they weigh approximately 250 g (9 oz) and they are independent at 6 months old. They reach sexual maturity at approximately 3 years of age.

Predators

Predators of Maned Three-Toed Sloths include humans and domestic dogs. Their main threat, however, is loss of their forest habitat.

Interesting Facts

Maned Three-Toed Sloths are also known as:
Brazilian Three-Toed Sloth
Maned Sloth
Ai