Taco’s Journey from Rescue to Independence

In the vast expanses of the Osa Peninsula, an unexpected tale of survival unfolds. Meet Taco, a rescued two-fingered sloth who has defied the odds and captured the hearts of people everywhere. Her story is one of resilience, care, and community effort, showcasing the remarkable work of our organization and it’s partners.

At just six months old, Taco was found alone and vulnerable on the Osa Peninsula’s forest floor. Her small size and solitary condition suggested she had lost her mother, a dangerous situation for such a young creature. Thankfully, members of SINAC (Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación) discovered her and took immediate action.

Taco’s arrival at our partners, Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary, marked the beginning of a new chapter. Weak but determined, she was introduced to a world of care and structured rehabilitation. Our “sloth school” became Taco’s safe haven, a place where she could regain her strength and learn vital survival skills under expert guidance.

Learning to Thrive in Sloth School

Sloth School is a unique program meticulously designed by our organization to teach rescued sloths essential skills required for survival in the wild. Though many sloths start this program as newborns, Taco’s early life with her mother allowed her to grasp basic sloth behaviors more quickly. This background enabled her to fast-track through the curriculum, setting her apart as a remarkable student.

The program emphasizes foraging, climbing, and finding shelter – skills that are typically second nature for sloths.

Foraging, as seen above, is an indispensable skill for sloths, whose diets primarily consist of leaves, fruits, and blossoms. Taco’s early days in sloth school involved learning to identify and select appropriate foliage, a task requiring patience and observation. Her picky eating habits initially posed a challenge, but with time and encouragement, she has slowly begun to explore a variety of foods.

The Role of Caregivers and Community Support

The success of Taco’s rehabilitation relies on the dedication of her caregivers and the support of the community. Every day, these individuals work tirelessly to ensure Taco receives the best possible care, from gathering leaves for her diet to creating engaging enrichment activities.

Community involvement plays a vital role in sustaining these efforts, financially. Through symbolic adoptions and donations, sloth enthusiasts worldwide, like you, can contribute to Taco’s care and the continued mission of The Sloth Institute. By symbolically adopting Taco, you can directly impact her care and the conservation of other sloths in need. Each adoption includes a printable certificate and fact sheet, celebrating your contribution to a worthy cause.

Your support helps fund crucial rehabilitation programs, research initiatives, and community outreach efforts. Together, we can create a brighter future for sloths like Taco, ensuring their survival and prosperity in the wild.