Zoo Euthanizes Sloth from Sloth World, Adding to the String of Deaths Tied to this Facility

Summary:

SANFORD, FL – The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens announced the loss of Willow, a female sloth receiving behind-the-scenes care, marking the fifth death among animals undergoing rehabilitation after being rescued from a troubled Orlando attraction, “Sloth World”.

Zoo officials said Willow’s health had steadily declined in recent weeks despite daily monitoring and treatment from Animal Care, Nutrition, and Veterinary teams. After consulting with experts and conducting a comprehensive quality-of-life assessment, the staff made the difficult decision to euthanize her.

Her death is the latest in a series of losses tied to the rescue effort. Prior to Willow, four other sloths under or shortly after transfer into care — Bandit, Habanero, Dumpling, and a baby sloth named Mr. Ginger — died as a result of severe health complications. These recent deaths bring the total number of deaths connected to the Sloth World operation to at least 57.

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