Abstract
Bradypus variegatus is a member of the Order Pilosa, Family Bradypodidae, and is distributed in many subtropical and tropical countries in South and Central America. However, studies on this species in the wild are relatively limited and many aspects of its reproductive behaviour are unknown or unclear. The current report presents new observations of the reproductive behaviour of B. variegatus in its natural environment. These include details of both a male–female copulation and the simultaneous nurturing of two young sloths.
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Acknowledgments
We thank the field guide Luís Severino da Silva (Marrudo). This study was supported by an MSc grant from CNPq—Brazilian Council for Technologic and Scientific Development (grant number: 130770/2005-1). This non-invasive study complies with Brazilian law.
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Martins Bezerra, B., da Silva Souto, A., Halsey, L.G. et al. Observation of brown-throated three-toed sloths: mating behaviour and the simultaneous nurturing of two young. J Ethol 26, 175–178 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10164-007-0038-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10164-007-0038-z