Oct. 20 is International Sloth Day, which probably brings into mind a couple of questions.
First and foremost, what exactly is a sloth?
A sloth is a mammal that resembles a monkey resides largely in forests around Central and South America. Sloths are tree dwellers that sleep up to 20 hours a day and barely move at all.
According to National Geographic, sloths move so infrequently that algae grows on their fur, and they only go to the bathroom once a week!
Here are some other facts about sloths:
- They have an average life of 20 to 30 years.
- Sloths can hold their breath roughly 40 minutes underwater.
- It takes sloths up to one month to digest a meal.
- Sloths have finger bones that are up to four inches long.
- Sloths can rotate their heads 270 degrees in either direction.
Another question is, why is there an International Sloth Day?
It’s a day held to observe these animals and celebrate their uniqueness.
One such place that is offering a chance to view sloths and their lifestyle is Wild Florida, which is hosting Sloth Days from Oct. 20 through Oct. 23.
There will be an assortment of family-friendly activities and chances to get up close with sloths.
Visit this website to learn more what activities are happening and how you can celebrate International Sloth Day.