International Sloth Day is celebrated globally on October 20 each year. It’s a gentle reminder to appreciate the slowest-moving mammals on Earth and to raise awareness for their conservation and habitat protection. This day blends celebration with purpose—learning about these peaceful creatures, reflecting on our pace of life, and supporting efforts that help ecosystems thrive.
What is International Sloth Day?
Founded in 2010 by the Fundación AIUNAU, a wildlife conservation foundation in Colombia, the day aims to spotlight sloths—both two-toed and three-toed—and the challenges they face. This observance also honors the first International Meeting on Sloth Well‑being and Conservation, held in Medellín that same year. Since then, animal lovers, wildlife groups, zoos, and researchers commemorate the day with events, education, and fundraising.
When is International Sloth Day?
International Sloth Day always falls on October 20. This date has remained consistent, anchoring annual celebrations, virtual events, and outreach campaigns throughout the month of “SlothTober.” In 2026, the date offers an opportunity to take slow, mindful action in support of sloth habitats and awareness.
Why International Sloth Day Matters
Sloths play a key role in tropical rainforest ecosystems. Their slow movements and unique fur—which often hosts algae—help support other wildlife, from insects to understory plants. They act as an umbrella species: protecting them benefits other creatures that share their habitat.
Yet sloths face serious threats. Habitat loss, deforestation, electric wires, road crossings, and illegal wildlife trade put them at risk. Many are injured or orphaned annually due to these pressures, especially in areas undergoing rapid urbanisation.
International Sloth Day provides a platform to recognise these challenges, raise funds for rehabilitation and habitat restoration, and inspire global action to protect sloths and their forests.
How to Get Involved in International Sloth Day
- Learn and share: Read up on the six species of sloths, their habitat needs, and behaviours. Share fun facts or photos online to spark conversations.
- Support conservation: Donate to organisations like AIUNAU, Sloth Conservation Foundation, or The Sloth Institute to fund rescue, research, and habitat protection.
- Symbolic adoption: Adopt a sloth through a wildlife foundation and help fund its care and rehabilitation.
- Plant trees: Reforest areas where sloths live or support canopy restoration projects—both slow deforestation and bridge forest fragments.
- Volunteer or visit: Attend zoo events, wildlife centre workshops, or virtual talks to deepen your appreciation and support network.
- Slow down: Practice mindful rest today in honour of sloths. Take a nap, read a book, or enjoy nature without rushing.
History of International Sloth Day
The initiative began in 2010 after AIUNAU hosted its first wildlife meeting in Medellín, recognising the need for global understanding and protection of sloths. Over the following years, the celebration grew—zoos welcomed public engagement, wildlife centres created events, and “SlothTober” campaigns emerged to stretch awareness beyond a single day.
Noteworthy Facts About Sloths
- There are two main types of sloths—two-toed and three-toed—with six species in total.
- Sloths move up to 40 yards per day in trees but can swim three times faster than they walk on land.
- Their fur hosts algae and microorganisms that help camouflage them in leafy forests.
- They descend from trees for defecation about once a week—an activity that increases their risks to predators.
- With forest loss and urban development, many sloths now face dangers like electrocution, being hit by cars, or being captured for pets.
Hashtags
#InternationalSlothDay, #SlothTober, #SaveTheSloths, #SlothLife
Links
Related Events
February 13
February 13
February 14
February 15 - February 22
