The keepers were delighted to spot the new arrival clinging onto Marilyn.

Keepers celebrate new year and new arrival.

ZSL London Zoo has announced its first new arrival of 2023 – an adorable baby two-toed sloth.

Born to parents Marilyn and Leander, the newborn arrived on New Years Day, starting the year off with some excitement.

Veronica Heldt, sloth keeper at London Zoo, said: “Having arranged regular ultrasounds with the Zoo’s vet team we knew Marilyn was coming to the end of her pregnancy, so we’ve been checking every day for any sign of the new arrival; we were delighted to finally spot a tiny baby exactly where it should be, clinging onto Marilyn’s tummy, as she curled up in her favourite tree.

“We’ve nick-named the little one Nova, which means ‘new’ in Latin, as we couldn’t have asked for a better start to the new year.”

The sex of the special arrival won't be confirmed until after hair DNA has been analysed, but once confirmed, Nova will join the European Studbook (ESB) which supports a coordinated breeding programme to ensure the future of the two-toed sloth species.

Veronica continued: “Every birth at London Zoo is a conservation success and a vital part of ZSL’s work preserving and protecting wildlife. The start of a new year is always cause for celebration, but the arrival of baby Nova has made 2023 extra special.”

Image (C) ZSL London Zoo