Another stuffed sloth on I-5 near Bellingham taken down by WSDOT crew

A second stuffed sloth, which quickly became a local curiosity along I-5 near Bellingham, has been removed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). This plush companion was spotted high in a tree near Lake Samish over the weekend, following the removal of the original stuffed sloth known as “Slothy. ” For more than a year, Slothy greeted passing vehicles, becoming a beloved site for travelers. However, WSDOT crews took down the new sloth on April 7, 2025, citing safety concerns for both drivers and those attempting to install such objects. While these stuffed animals have brought smiles to many, the agency emphasizes that placing items in trees along busy highways can be hazardous.

WSDOT remains committed to ensuring the safety of all travelers on the roads. They encourage creative expressions of joy but stress the importance of choosing safe locations for displays. This incident highlights a unique intersection of local culture and public safety concerns.