Denver Zoo Celebrates the Arrival of Baby Sloth Sloan

The Denver Zoo has welcomed a new addition to their family—a baby Linne’s Two-toed Sloth who is already winning hearts with her charming demeanor. Despite their reputation for being so leisurely that algae can grow on their fur, this little sloth is anything but slow when it comes to capturing the affection of zoo visitors and staff alike.

The zoo shared the joyful news of the sloth’s birth in July, sparking excitement and anticipation among the public. To make the event even more special, the zoo invited everyone to participate in naming the new arrival, offering three delightful options:

Harper: Named after Charley Harper, a renowned illustrator celebrated for his vibrant and whimsical depictions of nature, including many pieces created for the National Park Service.
Sloan: Inspired by Sloan’s Lake, a cherished local landmark known for its tranquil beauty and serene atmosphere.
Isabel (Bel for short): This name pays homage to the San Juan National Forest, a haven for diverse wildlife and breathtaking wilderness.

After much anticipation and many votes, the zoo proudly announced that the baby sloth would be named Sloan, a nod to Denver’s own Sloan’s Lake. “Named after Denver’s own Sloan’s Lake, her name reflects the serene beauty and calm grace of this beloved local landmark,” the zoo shared with enthusiasm on Facebook.

According to the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, newborn sloths spend their first weeks nestled securely on their mother’s belly, nursing and bonding. The mother’s fur offers both comfort and protection, creating a cozy sanctuary for the young sloth during her early days.

As Sloan grows, she will gradually begin to sample solid foods at around ten weeks of age, while continuing to rely on her mother’s care. Sloths typically remain with their mothers for about nine months before venturing out on their own.

Known for their tranquil lifestyles, sloths spend most of their lives suspended upside down in trees. They enjoy long hours of sleep—around 15-20 hours each day—and often appear perfectly content in their restful state. Occasionally, they descend to the ground to explore new food sources or tend to nature’s call, making each trip a rare and fascinating sight.

The arrival of baby Sloan has brought joy and wonder to the Denver Zoo, reminding us all of the incredible beauty and diversity of the natural world. As she grows and thrives under the loving care of her mother and the zoo staff, Sloan’s presence is sure to continue enchanting everyone who visits.