Abstract Bradypus variegatus Schinz, 1825 (the brown-throated three-toed sloth), is 1 of 4 extant three-toed sloths. A high-canopy folivore, B. variegatus is distributed over southern Central America and northern and central South America and is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources because of its wide distribution. Males have a middorsal speculum. B. variegatus has a commensal relationship with the algae and invertebrates that live in its thick pelage. It does not adapt well to zoo settings.