Baby Linne joins her mum, Terry, at the Sloth House in Jersey Zoo.

The two-toed sloth pup was born on 15 January and her mother Terry is doing well.

Islanders won't be able to see Linne just yet, as she needs time to bond with her mum.

The Sloth House will be closed until the pair are ready to welcome guests again.

Jersey Zoo says the birth marks an important milestone in the conservation of the species.

However, the zoo also shares some sad news.

Young Linne's father, Rio, passed away yesterday (23 January 2025) aged 23.

He was paired with Terry under the breeding programme and came to Jersey from Bristol Zoo in 2022.

Unfortunately, he suffered from dental and kidney issues, though these are said to have stabilised when he joined Durrell.

The conservation charity says Rio's health took a turn in recent months and zoo keepers made the 'difficult decision' to euthanise him, after his dental condition 'significantly worsened'.

Rio and Terry in the Sloth House in 2022

Ben Matthews, Curator of Mammals at Jersey Zoo, says he is sure Rio will be missed by staff, volunteers and visitors.

"Despite his ongoing health challenges, the team have done an admirable job caring for Rio during his final years.

"If we reflect on the part the animals in our care play in the wider picture of conservation, we can take solace in the fact that Rio’s important genes have been passed on with the arrival of his offspring.

"It’s truly a poignant reminder of why we do what we do.”

Rio in 2024

The team at Jersey Zoo are keeping a close eye on Terry and Linne during this 'sensitive time'.

They say they have no concerns about Terry being without an adult companion and will announce when the Sloth House will be open to the public again.