Hurricane, ‘beloved’ sloth at Vancouver Aquarium, dies

One of Vancouver’s “most beloved” resident sloths has died.

The Vancouver Aquarium announced the death of Hurricane on Monday on social media.

The 29-year-old Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth has been receiving “specialized geriatric care and close monitoring” in recent months, it said.

“Hurricane held a special place in the hearts of our team and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” said the aquarium in the post. “She was known for the unique bond she shared with her keepers and trainers, whom she enjoyed interacting with each day.”

The aquarium has another sloth, Sally, who celebrated her 28th birthday in July.

Native to the rainforests of Central and South America, sloths are tree-dwelling mammals that spend most of their lives hanging upside down or moving slowly between branches using their long, curved claws.

The median life span for two-toed sloths in captivity is about 16 years, according to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. The oldest living sloth was about 49 when it died at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.

Hurricane’s curious nature and daily interactions with staff and visitors from her habitat in the aquarium’s tropical Graham Amazon gallery made her a fan favourite.

“Her presence brought joy to countless visitors and created lasting memories for our team,” said the aquarium.

The aquarium had previously shared video of Hurricane’s tiny cup-like ears, which are usually hidden behind its furry mane.

More to come …

chchan@postmedia.com