Edinburgh Zoo welcomes Scotland’s only sloth bear

Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed Scotland’s only sloth bear, Cipísek, from Zlin Zoo in the Czech Republic. 

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is giving the two-year-old bear some time to settle in before fully opening his specially designed habitat to visitors, but lucky zoo-goers might catch a glimpse of him as he explores outside.  

Alison MacLean, carnivore team leader at Edinburgh Zoo said, “Cipísek is already beginning to show his personality, and we can’t wait for visitors to see him in his new home. 

“Within the new habitat here at the zoo, there is a large outdoor space for him to roam which mimics the species’ natural habitat, including a new a den providing visitors with amazing views. 

“We can’t wait to welcome another sloth bear from Europe over the coming months as a companion for Cipísek.” 

The sloth bear’s forest and grassland homes are vanishing and many fall victim to poachers. By welcoming this species, the wildlife conservation charity hopes its visitors can learn more about the animals and how to help protect them in the wild. 

Visitors can book zoo tickets online in advance and save at edinburghzoo.org.uk/tickets