Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Hoffmann's two-toed sloth

Scientific name: Choloepus hoffmanni


Hoffmann's two-toed sloth

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: MEGALONYCHIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Tolerant

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04-31.07

Gestation: 10 à 12 mois

Births: 01.09-31.12


Habitat:
Tropical forests of Central and South America, mainly in Costa Rica, Panama, and other regions of the Amazon basin

Description:
The Two-toed Sloth is an arboreal mammal native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, notably in Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It measures between 50 and 60 cm in length, with a reduced tail and weighs between 4 and 8 kg. Its fur is long, thick, and gray-green in color, allowing it to blend into the foliage of trees. As its name suggests, it has two toes on its front limbs, which allow it to cling to branches and move slowly from tree to tree. The Two-toed Sloth is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. Although it is an excellent climber, it moves very slowly and often only leaves its trees once a week to descend to the ground for defecation. The species is currently listed as "vulner

Recommended lens:
>=100 mm

Photography tips:
Use a macro lens or a telephoto lens to photograph this two-toed sloth. Being a very slow animal, it is best to photograph it when it is perched in trees. The soft light of the morning or evening is ideal for capturing its slow movements and features. Be discreet and respect their space to avoid disturbing their natural behavior, especially during their breeding season.

Ready to take action?

Choose your platform and start your free trial today