From an early age, sloths—those charming animals seen in treetops—set out on an intriguing journey towards self-reliance. One essential and fascinating part of the life cycle of sloths is the age at which they split from their moms.

The sloth is the star of a fantastic ecological dance that takes place high up in the tree canopy of the lush rainforests of Central and South America. Beyond their methodical and leisurely motions, these animals have intriguing connections with moths and algae that highlight the complex interactions found in nature.