Every third Saturday in October, the International Sloth Day is celebrated, which arises as a defense and conservation of these animals. But why this day and what do we know about this species? Let’s find out by being somewhat less known.
This day arises as a defense of this species that may be in danger of extinction because its illegal sale has grown over the years. We must all become aware that animals must live in their habitat. It is also trying to stop the sale of exotic animals in general.
Curiosities of the sloth
It is also called folivores or phytophages and corresponds to placental mammals of the order Pilosa. It is of the neotropical type and therefore we find it in various places on the planet such as in the humid jungles of Central and South America.
They are related to anteaters and, more distantly, to armadillos.
Characteristics
They have a rounded head, with a neck with six cervical vertebrae, while the front legs are longer than the back legs and they have hooked nails to hang from the branches.
We found three-toed and two-toed sloths . Those of three usually boast of a small tail, and those of two do not have it.
Its size depends on the type. The two-toed sloth is larger, with a body length between 58 and 70 cm and usually weighs between 4 and 8 kg. But the one with three fingers, measures 45 cm in length and weighs about 4 kg.
What do they eat?
They basically feed on tree leaves, so it is easy for them to get to eat.
They know how to swim very well
One of his particularities, and more so on the international sloth day, it should be noted that he knows how to swim very well. It is slow, yes, but it moves in its habitat and not at all well.
Why this name?
You may be wondering why this name has been attributed to this animal and it is one of its curiosities because it is believed that it can sleep more than 20 hours a day. However, various sources point out that this is not entirely correct and they sleep less, about half, since they also need to look for food to be able to eat.
This name is also pointed out because they are slow and hence it is also called lazy. Even if you think it is stationary, it turns out that it is moving but it does so very slowly and this is surprising.
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