Species · GBIF taxon 2436351
Maned Sloth
Bradypus torquatusAlso known as Northern Maned Sloth, Collar Sloth
Maned sloths spend nearly their entire lives high in the canopy of Brazil's Atlantic Forest, descending to the ground only once a week to defecate. Named for the long, dark mane of hair draping over their neck and shoulders, these solitary mammals move with deliberate slowness to conserve energy on a low-calorie diet of leaves. Their coarse fur hosts a miniature ecosystem of specialized algae, beetles, and moths that help camouflage them from aerial predators.
ArborealEndangeredSolitary
Licensed referenceB. Phalan / CC BY 4.0 · CC BY 4.0
- diet
- Folivorous (primarily leaves from Cecropia and other canopy trees)
- family
- Bradypodidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, deforestation, urbanization, and road collisions
- life Span
- 12 to 20 years
EN
Equipped with long, sharp claws; observe from a safe distance and do not attempt to handle.
Endangered due to severe fragmentation of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, leaving populations isolated in small forest patches.
Maintain a respectful distance, avoid making loud noises, and never attempt to touch or move them.- Binoculars Required: Scan the upper canopy of Cecropia trees where they blend seamlessly into the foliage.
- Keep Distance: Never approach if they descend to the ground, as this is their most vulnerable state.
- Drive Carefully: Watch for individuals attempting to cross roads dividing fragmented forest patches.