WATCH: Terrified sloth cut down from tree, then sold at market for tourist 'selfies'
Disturbing footage has emerged of a terrified sloth clinging desperately to a tree as illegal loggers chop it down.
The footage was taken in Peru, showing the sloth miraculously surviving after the 100ft tree slammed to the ground.
The animal was bagged up for sale in a nearby market town - a common occurrence, as sloths are sold for the exotic pet or tourist entertainment trade.
The sloths are often forced to pose for "selfies" with tourists and are kept in "filthy, cramped conditions", according to World Animal Protection CEO Steve McIvor.
They are also "repeatedly baited for food, causing them severe psychological trauma," he said.
Mr McIvor said that tourists were often unaware of the terrible conditions that the animals they pose with for photographs are kept in.
"This industry is fuelled by tourists, many of whom love animals and are unaware of the terrible treatment and abhorrent conditions wild animals may endure to provide that special souvenir photo."
