Explore the fascinating differences and surprising similarities between Costa Rica’s beloved two-toed and three-toed sloths – and find out the best places to spot them in the wild.
Learn how and where to spot both sloth species and why protecting their rainforest home is more important than ever.
10 Facts: Two-Toed vs. Three-Toed Sloths in Costa Rica
- Different Families:
Two-toed sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni) and three-toed sloths (Bradypus variegatus) belong to different families and are not closely related, despite their shared lifestyle. - Number of Toes Only on Front Feet:
The distinction in their name refers only to the number of toes on their front limbs—both have three toes on the back limbs. - Activity Patterns:
Two-toed sloths are nocturnal, most active at night, while three-toed sloths are diurnal, often seen during the day. - Facial Expressions:
Three-toed sloths have a gentle, “smiling” face due to their mouth structure, while two-toed sloths have a more pig-like snout and can look more serious. - Speed and Movement:
Two-toed sloths are slightly faster and more agile, capable of defending themselves with strong bites, while three-toed sloths rely on camouflage and slow movements to avoid predators. - Fur and Algae:
Three-toed sloths often have greenish-tinged fur from algae growing on them, helping them blend into the canopy; two-toed sloths have thicker, creamier fur and less algae. - Diet Differences:
Two-toed sloths eat a more varied diet including fruits, leaves, and even small animals, while three-toed sloths are strict herbivores, feeding only on select leaves. - Number of Cervical Vertebrae:
Three-toed sloths have nine neck vertebrae, allowing them to turn their heads 270 degrees; two-toed sloths have only six or seven, limiting neck movement. - Habitat Preference:
Both species live in the rainforest canopy, but two-toed sloths prefer denser, higher areas while three-toed sloths are often seen closer to the forest edge or in more open spaces. - Best Places to See Them in Costa Rica:
You can spot both species in places like Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado National Park, Tortuguero, and La Fortuna, as well as wildlife sanctuaries like the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica and the Toucan Rescue Ranch.
🦥 Comparison Table: Two-Toed vs. Three-Toed Sloth in Costa Rica
| Fact | Two-Toed Sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) | Three-Toed Sloth (Bradypus variegatus) |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Family | Belongs to the Megalonychidae family | Belongs to the Bradypodidae family |
| 2. Toes (Front Limbs) | Two toes on each front limb | Three toes on each front limb |
| 3. Activity Pattern | Nocturnal (active at night) | Diurnal (active during the day) |
| 4. Face Appearance | Pig-like snout, more serious look | Perma-“smile,” rounder face |
| 5. Movement & Defense | Faster, can bite or swipe | Slower, relies on camouflage |
| 6. Fur & Algae | Thicker fur, rarely has algae | Often green-tinged from algae |
| 7. Diet | Omnivore: fruits, leaves, sometimes insects | Strict herbivore: selective leaf eater |
| 8. Neck Flexibility | 6–7 cervical vertebrae, limited rotation | 9 vertebrae, turns head 270° |
| 9. Habitat Preference | Prefers dense high canopies | Found closer to forest edges |
| 10. Where to See Them | Seen in national parks, sanctuaries | Seen in same areas—great for comparison |
Two Species, One Enchanting Experience
Whether you’re marveling at the slow-motion grace of a three-toed sloth basking in the sunlight or spotting a two-toed sloth curled up in the forest canopy after nightfall, both species offer a magical glimpse into the quiet wonders of Costa Rica’s rainforests. Their differences—from diet and daily rhythms to neck flexibility and facial expressions—make each encounter unique, while their shared arboreal lifestyle connects them as icons of tropical biodiversity.
Seeing these gentle creatures in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and places like Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, La Fortuna, and reputable sanctuaries such as the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica and Toucan Rescue Ranch provide unforgettable opportunities to witness their world up close.
So next time you’re in Costa Rica, take a moment to look up—you might just find yourself eye to eye with one of nature’s most fascinating slowpokes.
Ready to meet Costa Rica’s sloths in person?
Start planning your eco-adventure and learn how your visit can help protect their rainforest home.