As zealous zoo-goers in Jacksonville might slowly move to catch a glimpse of the latest attraction, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens unveiled a new habitat for its tree-dwelling residents. 'Sloth Crossing,' the aptly named exhibit, serves as a new abode for Ruth, a sprightly 7-year-old Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth, and Chata, a more seasoned 29-year-old Hoffman’s two-toed sloth. Both sloths began to hang out at their new locale after joining the zoo last year, according to the Jacksonville.com.
The 'Sloth Crossing' opening is one of several enhancements being touted as part of the zoo's staggering $52 million Rezoovenation campaign, which promises to also deliver a refurbished entrance and a new manatee exhibit, all in the name of elevating both animal welfare and visitor experience. This development marks an ongoing effort to truly transform Jacksonville's Northside attraction into a top-tier zoo experience, as reported by Action News Jax. Visitors had the chance to share in this landmark moment with their families over the weekend.
The exhibit itself is designed to closely mimic a verdant rainforest landscape, complete with a variety of vines, ample greenery, a solarium-style section for extra sunlight, and a series of climbing structures that encourage the sloths to engage in their natural slow-moving antics. "The new habitat is inspired 'by lush rainforests and filled with vines, greenery, a solarium-style section, and climbing structures,'" First Coast News quotes the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens as stating.
The grand opening of Sloth Crossing was a lively event, featuring remarks from Curtis Dvorak, the zoo’s “Wildlife Wanderer” and a familiar face from First Coast Living, along with Jeff Ettling, President and CEO of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. They welcomed guests—both human and sloth—to the celebration. With their slow and steady charm, the sloths are helping make the Jacksonville Zoo a must-visit destination, as reported by First Coast News.
