BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Visitors to the Birmingham Zoo can now catch a glimpse of Coconut, a female Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth that moves at a leisurely pace and hangs upside down for much of its days.
Known for their slow-motion lifestyle and tree-dwelling habits in Central and South American rainforests, Linnaeus’s two-toed sloths spend up to 20 hours a day resting or sleeping, gripping branches with their specialized claws. The zoo announced the new arrival Thursday in the Predator Building, where Coconut joins the lineup of exhibits.
This addition comes amid a wave of recent animal updates at the Birmingham Zoo. Last year, the facility brought Reynardo, a Hoffmann’s two-toed sloth, back to public view after time behind the scenes. Other recent newcomers have included species like the binturong, keeping the zoo’s collection fresh for spring crowds.
The sloth’s low-key charm offers a relaxing contrast to the zoo’s more active attractions, drawing families eager for a feel-good encounter with one of nature’s chillest creatures.
With clear skies forecast this weekend, the timing couldn’t be better for a visit to see Coconut in action — or rather, at rest.
The Birmingham Zoo’s latest sloth arrival highlights ongoing efforts to refresh exhibits, blending education on these unique mammals with family-friendly appeal.