SLOTH RESCUE CENTER SURINAME
(PART OF THE KINDRED GUARDIANS PROJECT)
FULL STORY BELOW
SUMMARY
LOCATION | PARAMARIBO, SURINAME
"The Sloth Lady of Suriname" is a compelling chapter in the Kindred Guardians project, which chronicles individuals devoted to animal welfare and wildlife conservation. This segment features Monique Pool, a CNN Hero whose efforts in sloth conservation have made a significant impact in Suriname, a densely forested country in South America.
In 2005, Pool founded the Green Heritage Fund Suriname to protect sloths and other local wildlife. Known as the go-to expert for sloths in distress, she remains on call during the night, assisting sloths that find themselves in precarious situations. Without any formal training in wildlife conservation—having entered the field while searching for her missing dog—Pool has, with the help of volunteers, rescued, rehabilitated, and relocated over a thousand sloths.
Her work gained widespread recognition following an event she dubbed "Slothageddon," during which she saved 141 sloths and over 40 other animals when a local forest area was developed. These animals, many of which ended up temporarily in Pool’s own home, highlighted the ongoing challenges facing wildlife due to urban expansion.
Deforestation and climate change pose significant threats to sloths, exacerbating conditions like droughts, which have led to dehydration and abandonment. Pool voices deep concerns about the future of these creatures, citing additional pressures from illegal gold mining. However, she remains hopeful, stating, "Suriname is the most forested country in the world and incredibly beautiful. If we can conserve it, we have the opportunity to set an example for the rest of the world."
Learn more about Monique Pool's transformative conservation efforts.
This photo story has been featured in the following media outlets.
THIS STORY IS PART OF MY KINDRED GUARDIANS PROJECT - Kindred Guardians is an ongoing self-funded personal project focused on documenting people around the world who dedicate their lives to helping animals in need. Each chapter explores a new issue and a new bond between humans and animals.
The goal of the project is to shed light on wildlife issues globally and to celebrate and showcase the crusaders who make it their life’s work to give wildlife a voice.
All images/text are donated to each individual/organization featured in the project and are also available for purchase for media outlets around the world.