At the recent CITES COP20 summit in December 2025, the proposal to list two-fingered sloths in CITES Appendix II was adopted, in response to growing concerns about illegal trade driven by the rising demand for selfies and other wildlife attractions. 

Social media is filled with photos and videos of people holding sloths (or other wildlife), and we are investigating the reasons behind this behavior, as well as public perceptions and experiences regarding encounters with sloths.

Sloth fans in the United States – Mother’s Day is fast approaching! What better way to show your love and appreciation than by adopting a sloth in your mom’s name?