Full Breakdown
Scotland Welcomes Its First Native-Born Sloth, Atty, at Edinburgh Zoo
5/15/2026, 7:02:49 AM
A Historic Birth at Edinburgh Zoo
On Monday 11 May 2026, a Linne’s two-toed sloth named Atty was born at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Edinburgh Zoo, the first sloth birth recorded in Scotland. Six-year-old parents Feira and Nico are first-time parents. Atty will cling to Feira’s belly for about six months, receiving food mouth-to-mouth.
Background: Species and Conservation Context
Linne’s two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) inhabits South American tropical forests. Though not endangered, deforestation has reduced its range, causing recent population declines. The zoo birth highlights these pressures.
Key Figures
- Atty – named for Sir David Attenborough, who turned 100 days before the birth.
- Feira – mother, parent.
- Nico – father.
- Jess Brown – head keeper of the sloth program.
- Sir David Attenborough – naturalist whose 2017 comment “undoubtedly be a sloth” inspired the name.
Data & Statistics
- Sloths sleep 15 hours daily.
- They can hold their breath 40 minutes.
- In water they swim three times faster than they walk.
- Atty will cling to his mother for six months before independent foraging.
- Their fur hosts green algae that provides camouflage and a food source.
Why It Matters
The birth is a milestone for Edinburgh Zoo and Scotland’s wildlife exhibition record, showcasing breeding capability. Anticipated visitor interest can boost education and conservation funding, while drawing attention to sloth habitat loss and forest protection.
Official Statements & Responses
Edinburgh Zoo, head keeper Jess Brown, called the birth “ground-breaking not just for Edinburgh Zoo, but for Scotland.” The zoo announced sloth house will open to visitors from 2 pm on 13 May, with hours subject to change. Royal Zoological Society of Scotland said newborn will be monitored for health and development.
Criticism & Opposition
No public criticism or opposition has been reported in the sources concerning the birth or its naming.
Verbatim Quotes
- “groundbreaking, not just for Edinburgh Zoo, but for Scotland” — Jess Brown, Head Keeper, Edinburgh Zoo
- “Seeing a sloth baby clinging to mum for the very first time has been so special for the whole team and we can’t wait for visitors to see little Atty.” — Jess Brown, Head Keeper, Edinburgh Zoo
- “He is already showing plenty of personality and visitors might spot a tiny face peeking out from mum's fur.” — Jess Brown, Head Keeper, Edinburgh Zoo
- “And it's a pretty apt nod to Sir David, who in 2017 told BBC News if he had to be an animal for a day, he would "undoubtedly be a sloth".” — Sir David Attenborough (2017 interview)
What’s Next
The sloth house will welcome the public beginning 13 May, with entry times varying. Zoo staff will continue mouth-to-mouth feeding for the first six months and later introduce Atty to independent feeding. Ongoing monitoring will inform future breeding programs for sloths and other exotic species at the facility.
