Sloth World closes permanently after animal deaths, 13 sloths transferred to Central Florida Zoo
Updated
Updated · Orlando Sentinel · Apr 24
Sloth World closes permanently after animal deaths, 13 sloths transferred to Central Florida Zoo
6 articles · Updated · Orlando Sentinel · Apr 24
Thirteen surviving sloths arrived Friday at Central Florida Zoo for quarantine after dozens died and 24 remain unaccounted for, following Sloth World’s closure before its planned Orlando opening.
The zoo is working with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for long-term placement, while Orange County cited permit violations and posted a stop-work order on the warehouse used by Sloth World.
Sloth World’s closure follows bankruptcy, public outcry, and calls for investigation into regulatory gaps after 31 sloth deaths. Conservation groups and officials stress the ongoing need for improved animal welfare oversight.
With 31 dead and 13 rescued, what happened to the other 25 sloths imported by Sloth World?
Why did regulators issue only a verbal warning after 31 sloths died from neglect at Sloth World?
Will the Sloth World tragedy lead to stricter laws for Florida's exotic animal attractions?
The owner blames a virus, but officials cite fatal cold. What really happened at the planned 'Slotharium'?
How did an unlicensed Orlando attraction manage to import 69 sloths before being shut down?
Could the novel virus found in deceased sloths pose a wider threat to other wildlife or humans?