Sloth Encounters
A one-of-a-kind encounter with one of nature’s most fascinating creatures!
Saturdays and Sundays through 5/24
$150 per group (up to 6 participants)
Meet one of the most charming animals at Whitaker Center in a guided 30-minute Sloth Encounter designed for small groups. This member-exclusive experience gives guests (up to 6 per group) the chance to get closer, learn more, and enjoy an unforgettable moment with support from the Animal Care Team at Whitaker!
Quick Overview
- Guests must be age 5+
- 30-minute session
- Saturdays and Sundays through 5/24
- Every session begins at 2 PM
- Skewer-feed the sloth
- Pictures encouraged (no flash permitted)
Please review the terms and conditions before booking your experience.
Not a UPMC Science Center Member yet? Signing up is easy!
What to Expect
Reservations
- Limited spots. For the best care, comfort, and well-being of the sloth and our guests, encounters are limited to once daily on select dates and must be scheduled in advance.
- Non-member guests. If any party in your group is not covered under your UPMC Science Center Membership, they’re required to buy a general admission ticket to the Science Center. General admission is not included with the experience.
- Age & supervision policy. Children must be age 5+ to participate. Any guest under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (21+).
Interaction & Experience Overview
- Your group should arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled encounter for a brief orientation with the Animal Care Team.
- You’ll be invited into the sloth enclosure (in groups of up to 3 at a time) where the animal feels most comfortable.
- Please note: The enclosure is a hot and humid environment with uneven surfaces and a dirt floor.
- Lightweight clothing and flat shoes are recommended. (Shoe covers will be provided)
- No jackets allowed.
- You may skewer-feed and take photos or videos with the sloth. (Flash not permitted)
- Hugging or forced interaction is not allowed.
- Typically, the encounter lasts 15–30 minutes, depending on the sloth’s comfort and behavior.
Health & Safety Guidelines
To ensure the safety and well-being of both guests and animals:
- Children must be supervised at all times.
- If anyone in your group shows signs of illness (cold, fever, etc.), we ask that you reschedule — sloths are very sensitive to human germs.
- Follow all staff instructions during the encounter.
FAQs
Can I hold the sloth?
- No, sloths are quite fragile, and holding them can stress them out. Our encounters focus on gentle interaction, skewer-feeding, and photos/videos on the sloth’s terms.
Are photos allowed?
- Yes! Visitors are welcome to take photos or videos, as long as they follow staff instructions and move slowly around the animal.
Is the fee the same for all group sizes?
- This experience is priced per group, not individually. Groups may have up to 6 guests!
Please review the terms and conditions before booking your experience.
Not a UPMC Science Center Member yet? Signing up is easy!
