Sloth Training at the National Aviary, presented for the ABMA's 2026 Behaviour Month

The National Aviary isn't just for birds; we are also home to several non-avian species, including Linnaeus' Two-Toed Sloths like Vivien. In this video, we are demonstrating some of the things Viv has, through positive reinforcement training, become an active participant in allowing us to enhance her wellbeing. She participates in her own routine care through nail trims, abdominal palpation, injections, and more, all while snacking on her favorite produce. We practice these behaviors often to provide excellent care for our sloths and significantly reduce any potential stress such endeavors could cause.