Capron Park Zoo announces birth of sloth

ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WLNE) — Capron Park Zoo has announced a new addition to their animal family.

On October 22, animal care staff found the infant Hoffmann’s Two-Toed Sloth pup with mother, Narisa.

According to a release, since the birth, staff have regularly observed mother and pup for neonatal behavior and feedings.

These observations reassure proper maternal care and infant development are progressing as expected.

Capron Park Zoo said a baby sloth in the wild will cling to its mother’s fur for six months or more while learning to find leaves that are nutritious and low in toxins.

Maternal care can last for a full year, as they learn to become more independent.

Due to the intense maternal care involved, mortality rates are high in young sloths, according to the zoo, and that’s why the staff will continue to monitor and evaluate the care that Narisa provides.