No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeTopicsEnvironment and WildlifeCleo’s Recovery: A Costa Rican Sloth’s Journey Back to the Wild

Cleo’s Recovery: A Costa Rican Sloth’s Journey Back to the Wild

Meet Cleo, a resilient survivor with an incredible story of hope and healing at the Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary in Costa Rica. Cleo’s journey began in the Barco Quebrado area, where, tragically, her mother was electrocuted by uninsulated power lines and died instantly. At just around two months old, Cleo was thrown from her mother’s back during the accident, sustaining serious injuries.

When Cleo arrived at Sibu Sanctuary in June of this year, she weighed only 330 grams and was in a fragile state. The team at Sibu quickly came to her aid, providing the critical care and treatment she needed.

Sadly, Cleo’s injuries were severe enough that her arm had to be amputated. In addition to her amputation, Cleo also suffered significant burns, which the dedicated staff at Sibu continue to treat diligently. Despite all she’s been through, Cleo’s story is one of resilience and the determination to survive.

Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Nosara, plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife in Costa Rica, focusing on animals affected by deforestation, electrocution, and human encroachment on their natural habitats. Cleo’s story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by wildlife in a rapidly developing world.

While Cleo’s journey is far from over, she has made remarkable progress thanks to the sanctuary’s efforts. Her burns are healing, and though she’s still in recovery, Cleo’s future is hopeful. She’s looking forward to regaining her strength and one day being released back into the wild where she belongs.

Cleo’s story highlights the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and the need for awareness around the dangers posed to animals by uninsulated power lines. Her journey serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of protecting and caring for the vulnerable creatures that share our world

Visit us at sibusanctuary.org to see how you can help! Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Santa Marta, located a few kilometers northwest of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary

SIBU’s mission is to rescue injured, orphaned, and displaced wild animals and provide them immediate medical care, rehabilitation, and eventual release into the wild.

When the animals are determined to be strong, healthy and old enough to be re-integrated into the jungle they begin a step-down release program. Animals unlikely to survive in the wild receive a permanent enriching habitat for their life-term care.

Trending Now

Mexico’s Renata Zarazua Carries Regional Hopes into Australian Open 2026

As the tennis world gears up for the 2026 Australian Open, set to kick off on January 18, Latin America stands ready to make...

Costa Rica Police Arrest 4th Suspect in Quepos Couple Murder Case

Police arrested suspect Bryan López Villalobos, known as "Vampi," in Turrialba, marking a key development in the investigation into the deaths of a German...

How to Travel with Pets in Costa Rica Without Issues

Travelers who plan to bring their dogs or cats into or out of the country often face strict rules set by the National Animal...

US Forces Seize Second Oil Tanker Amid Tightened Blockade on Venezuela

United States forces intercepted a second oil tanker in international waters off Venezuela's coast on Saturday, escalating tensions in the Caribbean as President Donald...

Costa Rica Biologists Identify New Insect Species in Museum Collections

Biologists at the University of Costa Rica have uncovered 16 new species of leafhoppers after examining insect collections that sat untouched in museums for...

Honduras Sticks with Nighttime Border Shutdowns, Complicating Travel for Visitors

Travelers heading to Honduras face ongoing hurdles at land borders, where officials shut down crossings each night. The country's immigration service halts operations for...
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica