Clip Of Rescued Sloth Reveling In Head Scratches Is Wholly Soothing

Oct 07, 2020 by apost team

Some experiences are universal across species. Whether you are are a dog, a person, or a sleepy sloth, chances are you enjoy head scratches. Sloths are a great reminder that life can be lived at a slower pace. Their characteristically casual movements always give a sense of calm that is hard to replicate. Thus, seeing this rescued sloth from Venezuela kicking back and enjoying a nice scalp massage is an incredibly soothing sight.

Almost everything about a sloth is unique among the animal kingdom. According to HowStuffWorks.com, sloths' extremely slow movements can be attributed to a need to save energy. They need to save energy, the website explains, because they have a limited herbivorous diet that doesn't provide that many nutrients. This slow pace extends to the rest of the sloth's life and is not just limited to movement. Not only do they climb incredibly slowly, but they sleep for over 20 hours every day. With such an un-brisk lifestyle, their weekly excitement is often little more than using the restroom.

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There are two primary varieties of sloths differentiated by the number of toes — there are two-toed sloths (Choloepus didactylus) and three-toed sloths (Bradypus variegatus). As for the sloth in this video, it appears to be a two-toed sloth.

A video was shot of this sloth begging for its keeper to pet it and reveling in any attention it could get. As its rescuer scratches its head and face, the sloth joyfully kicks its head back and a smirking smile comes across its face. Its long talons, which would look intimidating in so many contexts, are used only to gently stroke the hand of the scratcher.

However, while this video is unquestionably cute, it is important to remember that owning a sloth as a pet is not a good idea, as National Geographic notes. Further, although it is possible to purchase sloths in some areas, the vast majority of locations consider it illegal to maintain a sloth as a pet. As with so much wildlife, it is best to appreciate sloths from afar in their natural environment.

It's always fun to see animals reacting in ways that we can relate to. Thus, this video of a rescued Venezualan sloth enjoying its moment of head scratches and love is sure to melt anyone's heart. Let us know what you think of this video, and be sure to show your friends and family members!

It's safe to say that it's a wonderful thing that this rescued animal got the care it needed. What's your favorite video of an animal that "thinks it's people?" Share with us!