Chattanooga Zoo Introduces New Two-Toed Sloth Boysenberry

News Summary

Chattanooga Zoo has welcomed a new two-toed sloth named Boysenberry. The seven-year-old sloth traveled from Oregon by private jet, arriving just in time for the holidays. Boysenberry will play an important role in wildlife education at the zoo, where she will help raise awareness about sloth conservation. With her arrival, the community celebrates a new reason to visit the zoo and connect with nature.

Chattanooga Zoo Welcomes a New Sloth, Boysenberry

Chattanooga, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Tennessee, has recently welcomed a delightful new resident to its beloved zoo! Say hello to Boysenberry, the two-toed sloth, who has officially made her debut this week. This sweet seven-year-old sloth joins the zoo’s family, much to the excitement of animal lovers and visitors alike!

A Journey Worth Noting

Boysenberry’s arrival was not just a casual trip; it was an adventure filled with care and planning. Having previously called the Oregon Zoo home, she traveled in style—by private jet! A dedicated team which included the director of operations from Crystal Air and others, set out on December 23rd from Wilson Air Center in Chattanooga.

After a brief stopover in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, the team landed at Hillsboro Airport in Portland, Oregon, to pick up Boysenberry. On Christmas Eve, they loaded her safely onto the aircraft, making sure to shield her from the cold and wet conditions outside. During the flight, the cabin was kept cozy, with temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit for her ultimate comfort.

Boysenberry’s story doesn’t stop there! They made another quick stop in Omaha, Nebraska on their way back, finally landing in Chattanooga just in time for the holiday season.

From the Air to the Trees

Once she arrived at the Chattanooga Zoo, Boysenberry wasted no time settling into her beautiful new home. She climbed trees and tucked herself into the treetops, already showing off her natural slothing skills. This adorable sloth weighs around 19 pounds, and as a two-toed sloth, she is known to spend approximately 90% of her time hanging upside down. Can you imagine? What a lifestyle!

A Fulfilling Addition

Boysenberry’s arrival fulfills a heartfelt goal for the zoo following the loss of a previous resident, a sloth named Olive, who had resided there years ago. Sloths are native to Central and South America and have garnered a reputation for their slow movements and easygoing ways, which stem from their low-energy diet and unique metabolism. Did you know that these lovable creatures can snooze for over 15 hours a day? Sounds like the life, right?

Spreading Awareness

Beyond her adorable antics, Boysenberry is also set to play a crucial role in the zoo’s education programs. She will help teach visitors about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting these gentle creatures in their natural habitats. Guests can now visit Boysenberry in the Forests of the World building at the Chattanooga Zoo, or even catch a glimpse of her through a live stream available on the zoo’s website.

A Grateful Community

The amazing journey of Boysenberry wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of donations that covered fuel and other transportation costs. The Chattanooga Zoo has expressed their gratitude towards Southern Honda Powersports for sponsoring her exhibit and thanks to all those who helped facilitate the successful transport of their new furry friend.

As the city of Chattanooga welcomes Boysenberry, residents and visitors alike now have an adorable new reason to visit the zoo. So, whether you’re an animal enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, make sure to check in on Boysenberry and see her enjoying her new home!