Strange Facts – 7 Little-Known Facts About Sloths!

Sloths are fascinating creatures that are often misunderstood due to their slow-moving nature. Here are seven little-known sloth facts that might surprise you.

1. Sloth Facts - Strength in Slowness: Despite their slow movements, sloths are incredibly strong. They are three times stronger than humans and can lift their entire body weight upwards with just one arm. Their strength is so immense that they can withstand the force of a jaguar trying to rip them from a tree.
2. Sloth Diet - Leaf Lovers: Sloths are folivores, meaning they primarily eat leaves. They have a complex gut bacteria that breaks down the leaves and helps them digest them. They need to drink water and avoid cold temperatures to survive. They also occasionally consume insects and small vertebrates.
3. Sloth Habitat - Tree Dwellers: Sloths spend their lives in the tropical rain forests of Central and South America. They move through the canopy at a rate of about 40 yards per day, munching on leaves, twigs, and buds. They require warm and humid conditions, and so are only found within 17° of the equator.
4. Avocado’s Best Friend: The extinct giant ground sloths were some of the only mammals that had digestive systems large enough to process the huge avocado seeds whole. They feasted on the fruit and then dispersed the seeds far and wide.
5. Bathroom Habits: Sloths are famous for their bizarre bathroom habits. They will only relieve themselves once a week and can lose up to a third of their body weight in one sitting! Furthermore, they will only do it on the ground after wiggling around the base of a tree to dig a little hole.
6. Swimming Abilities: Sloths showcase impressive swimming abilities, using their long arms to navigate through the water. They are surprisingly good swimmers despite their slow movements on land.
7. Variety of Species: There are six species of sloths that are found in the Americas, mainly in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Each species has unique characteristics and adaptations that make them fascinating to study.

As you probably now realize, sloths are much more than just cute, slow-moving creatures. They are strong, adaptable, and have a unique way of life that is truly fascinating. The next time you think of a sloth, remember these facts and appreciate the incredible creature that it is.