A new arrival at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire is settling in well.
Jemma the sloth has moved from Jersey Zoo as part of a conservation breeding programme.
She has joined Santos, the zoo’s resident male sloth, high in the Tropical House canopy.
Tropical House provides a warm, immersive environment that mirrors a rainforest habitat. As well as the sloths, there are free-flying birds including
Keepers hope the pair will eventually go on to breed.
Marwell’s Primates and Small Mammals Team Leader Amy Denny said: “Jemma arrived last month and has been settling in really well. She has plenty of space to explore within the Tropical House, as well as the opportunity to spend time with Santos if she chooses to. The pair have been interacting well and showing positive signs.
“Welcoming Jemma to Marwell is an important step towards future breeding efforts. As sloths are naturally solitary, our Tropical House provides the perfect environment in terms of size and complexity, allowing them to choose where they spend their time within the habitat.
“Sloths are one of the main victims of the ‘wildlife selfie trade’, so responsible tourism plays a vital role in their conservation. We’re proud to provide a habitat that gives them the choice and control – making it all the more special when you look up and spot them on the move.”
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