Exciting news for Denverites looking to beat the summer heat at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance – a new baby sloth has made its debut in the Tropical Discovery exhibit! Born on June 19 to Linne’s two-toed sloth parents Charlotte and Elliot, this adorable addition marks the fifth baby sloth for the zoo.
According to a post on Facebook by zoo officials, Charlotte and her new baby are thriving in their Tropical Discovery habitat. The baby sloth is described as strong, healthy, and nursing well. Elliot has graciously relocated to the Emerald Forest to give Charlotte and her baby some space to adjust. Notably, Charlotte’s previous baby, Sloan, was born in April of 2024.
Due to sloths having internal reproductive organs, a DNA test will be needed to determine the gender of the new baby. As of now, the baby sloth’s name has not been chosen.
Sloths reproduce year-round and give birth to single young after a 10-month gestation period, as stated by the zoo. Newborn sloths weigh between 10 to 13 ounces and measure 10 inches in length. They will remain close to their mother for four to five weeks for nursing before transitioning to solid foods.
Young sloths typically become independent and move out on their own at nine months of age. In captivity, sloths can live for 30 to 40 years.
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Originally Published: June 28, 2025 at 12:32 PM MDT
