Breeding Success at the South American House

Since they were paired in 2016, the two-toed sloths Speedy and Gonzalez have been a sure source of offspring. After a gestation period of approximately nine months, their sixth offspring was born. The sex of the baby is expected to be determined in seven months. These regular births as part of the European Conservation Breeding Program (ESB) represent a truly remarkable success.

To date, only female sloths have been born at the zoo in Eastern Styria. The older sisters were transferred to other zoos as part of the breeding program. The young sloths are now living in zoos in Poland, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

They live in the South American House alongside aras, coatis, maras, and tapirs. The zoo’s youngest resident spends his or her time stretched out on his or her mother’s belly, always ready to eat.

Two-toed sloths are native to northern South America, where they inhabit areas ranging from humid tropical rainforests in the lowlands of the Amazon Basin to cloud forests at elevations of approximately 2,400 meters. Their diet consists primarily of leaves, buds, fruits, and berries and is predominantly vegetarian.

Hours of operation during the Styrian semester break:

From February 16 to 26, 2023, the wildlife park will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Exception: On Shrove Tuesday, the ticket office closes at 1:00 p.m.