title: Towards a standard framework to describe behaviours in the common-sloth (Bradypus variegatus Schinz, 1825): novel interactions data observed in distinct fragments of the Atlantic forest, Brazil.
abstract: The common three-toed sloth is a widespread species, but the location and the observation of its individuals are greatly hindered by its biological features. Their camouflaged pelage, its slow and quiet movements, and the strictly arboreal habits resulted in the publication of sparse, fragmented and not patterned information on the common sloth behaviour. Thus, herein we propose an updated standardized behavioural categories' framework to the study of the species. Furthermore we describe two never reported interaction behaviours: a probable mating / courtship ritual between male and female; and apparent recognition behaviour between two males. Finally we highlight the contribution of small-duration field works in this elusive species ethological study.
authors.affiliation: Laboratório de Biologia Evolutiva e Conservação de Vertebrados - LABEC, Departmento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biosciências, Universidade de São Paulo, CEP 05508-090São PauloSP, Brazil.
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Silva
authors.forename: C L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Clozato
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Moraes-Barros
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Morgante
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000502:physiology*; D001938:Brazil; D017753:Ecosystem; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D012098:Reproduction; D012896:Sloths / Q000145:classification / Q000502:physiology*; D014197:Trees