Central Florida Zoo receives sloths from Sloth World Orlando for evaluation and rehoming
Updated
Updated · FOX 35 Orlando · Apr 20
Central Florida Zoo receives sloths from Sloth World Orlando for evaluation and rehoming
10 articles · Updated · FOX 35 Orlando · Apr 20
Over a dozen sloths were donated after 31 sloths died at Sloth World Orlando’s warehouse, with deaths attributed to cold stun or poor health by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Sloth World Orlando disputes the FWC findings, claiming a virus caused the deaths. The FWC issued no citations, but gave a verbal warning for improper cage sizes during an August 2025 inspection.
The Central Florida Zoo will assess the sloths and collaborate with the Species Survival Plan Program for long-term placement. The incident has prompted calls for stricter oversight of Florida’s captive wildlife permitting process.
Why did regulators fail to act before 31 sloths died in an unlicensed facility?
With no FWC citations for the deaths, will the owner of Sloth World face any real consequences?
A mystery virus or fatal neglect? What is the real story behind the Sloth World tragedy?
Is it time to ban the capture and import of wild sloths for entertainment entirely?
After surviving such trauma, what does the future truly hold for the remaining dozen sloths?
How common is deceptive 'greenwashing' among roadside zoos and animal attractions in the US?