On a remote Panamanian island live a distinct species of pygmy sloths that have developed some unusual adaptations for survival. By shrinking their size (40% smaller than mainland sloths) to use less energy, cultivating camouflaging algae on their fur and swimming between mangrove forests to secure mates and food these critically endangered animals have persevered. Although sloths are not the most elegant swimmers they can move three times faster in the water than in the canopy and their large bellies full of gas from digesting leaves aid in floatation! All is not well in their world however. Increased fishing activity, seasonal settlements and visiting tourists are impacting their remote habitat. With the help of tracking devices and further research by biologists like Becky Cliffe more data about these elusive creatures will help form future conservation plans.

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