Roger Williams Zoo announces the birth of a baby sloth

Roger Williams Zoo announces the birth of a baby sloth!

The newest addition to the zoo was born on October 11 to mom Fiona and dad Riley, and is in good health. Fiona previously gave birth to Beanie (2020), Jeffrey (2023), and Scout (in 2024).

Sloths are slow-moving mammals native to the rainforests of Central and South America, best known for their leisurely pace and upside-down lifestyle. They spend most of their lives hanging from tree branches, using their long, curved claws to grip tightly as they eat leaves, fruits, and occasionally insects. There are two main types of sloths—two-toed and three-toed—each adapted to a life of minimal energy use and camouflage among the trees. Their slow metabolism helps them survive on a low-calorie diet, but it also makes them vulnerable on the ground, where they move awkwardly.

This is another exciting birth at the zoo this year. Back in July, twin red panda kits were born — the first red panda births in the zoo’s history. The male and female cubs are the offspring of parents Zan and Kendji.