Bradypus pygmaeus facts for kids
The pygmy three-toed sloth (scientific name: Bradypus pygmaeus) is a special kind of sloth. It lives only on a tiny island called Escudo de Veraguas. This island is off the coast of Panama.
This sloth is listed as critically endangered by the IUCN. This means it is very close to disappearing forever. Why? Because its home is smaller than 5 square kilometers. Also, the mangrove forests where it lives are being cut down. The pygmy three-toed sloth does not have many natural enemies. This is because it lives on an isolated island with few other animals.
What Pygmy Sloths Eat
Pygmy three-toed sloths are plant-eaters. They mostly eat the leaves from different kinds of trees.
How Pygmy Sloths Look
The fur of the pygmy three-toed sloth often looks green. This is because tiny plants called algae grow on its fur. This algae helps the sloth blend in with the trees. It acts like natural camouflage.
These sloths have long arms and curved claws. These features help them hold onto tree branches very well. They also have a very slow body process. This means it can take them up to a month to digest just one leaf!
Images for kids
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Pygmy three-toed sloth on Isla Escudo de Veraguas
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Pygmy three-toed sloths live on red mangroves.
See also
In Spanish: Perezoso pigmeo para niños
