Wild Florida's baby sloth Chotski is turning one year old on May 8, marking a milestone for the park and its visitors. The two-toed sloth, born in late 2023, has become a favorite among guests since her arrival with mother Chloe last year. The birthday comes as the park prepares for its annual Mother's Day celebrations, though Chotski's milestone is separate from those events.
Chloe, a longtime resident of Wild Florida, gave birth to Chotski (sometimes spelled Tchotchke) just before the 2023 holidays. The pair now live in a 3-acre habitat designed for sloths, where they interact with visitors only when they choose. Park staff say the sloths' behavior determines encounters, with no forced interactions. This approach has drawn interest from visitors like Leslie Irwin of Caribou, Maine, who visited last month to see the sloths up close.
Sloth exhibits at Wild Florida have grown in popularity in recent years, with encounters booking quickly. The park's sloths, including Chloe and Chotski, were transferred from other U.S. facilities in 2022. They now live in a climate-controlled habitat that mimics their natural environment. Visitors often comment on the sloths' calm demeanor, with one guest describing a moment last year when Chotski tried corn for the first time.
Wild Florida's director of animal care, Sarah Mitchell, said the park prioritizes the sloths' well-being. "We let them set the pace," she said. "Chotski's first birthday is a reminder of how these animals adapt to their new home." The park plans to host a small celebration for the sloth on May 8, though details remain private. Regular visitors say the chance to observe the sloths' daily routines is a unique experience, especially for families with young children.
The park reported a 25% increase in visitors last year compared to 2022, with sloth exhibits accounting for 40% of all encounters. While Chotski's birthday is a celebration, staff emphasize that the sloths' lives continue as they always have—with slow movements, occasional naps, and the occasional curious visitor.