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By Dean Murray

A sloth family is seen safely recovering after being rescued from trafficking.

The male, mother sloth and her baby were recently intercepted and brought to safety at the International Animal Rescue (IAR) center in Costa Rica.

Exhausted and distressed from their ordeal, the trio are now receiving specialist care and rehabilitation.

The sloth family was brought back to the Costa Rica rescue center and, after a check-up by the vets, they were in good shape but stressed and would not eat; they would only take oral fluids.

Sussex-based IAR said: “We spoke to sloth experts, and it was agreed that the best plan was to transfer the sloth family to a specialist sloth center that can provide specialist sloth care and determine whether they should be released to the Pacific or Caribbean side prior to their release.”

“Their story is a poignant example of the threats faced by countless wild animals around the world and the critical role of rescue organisations in safeguarding their future.

“Wildlife trafficking is one of the most lucrative illegal trades globally, valued at billions of dollars each year. Sloths, often seen as gentle and slow-moving forest dwellers, have become increasingly targeted for the exotic pet trade and tourist exploitation.

“When captured, they are torn from their habitats, separated from their families, and frequently subjected to stress and neglect.”

The charity added: “The assumption is that they were being trafficked, as this species is located naturally in the Caribbean side and the South Pacific of Costa Rica; they were found in a makeshift shack near the North Pacific region.

“Sloths are one of the species that is most sought after, especially this species, because their facial expression looks like they are smiling.”

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