Sloths are so cute, I just want to hug them… well yes they are seriously cute, huggable cute? I’m not too sure.

There are two families distinguished by the number of digits on their front limbs all sloths have three toes but on their back feet.

Bradypodidae – Three-toed sloths

Megalonychidae – Two-toed sloths

Sloths are arboreal they eat, sleep, mate and give birth up in the trees. Only the three-toed sloth is a good swimmer.

Why wouldn’t I hug a sloth? Well firstly, the claws, (which are bone), are big and although sloths are known for being super slow when needed they can swipe those claws pretty fast.

Secondly, the two-toed sloth has two true upper canines and two lower caniniforms plus a snap-like bite – that could really hurt!

Another great thing about sloths is that algae grows on them. It makes them less huggable, but this algae and the sloth have a symbiotic relationship providing camouflage and possibly extra nutrients for their diet.

The sloth sanctuary in Costa Rica is a great place to get up close to the sloths and to see some of the brilliant work the sanctuary does.

About 30 mins from Puerto Viejo they offer tours daily. Book onto the Insiders Tour so you can see the babies and behind the scenes.