FWC suspends imports of sloths following Sloth World controversy
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) suspended sloth imports for 60 days after 55 sloths died at Orlando’s failed Sloth World attraction, which claimed to fund conservation efforts. Investigations revealed deaths from cold stun, emaciation, and gastrointestinal issues, with 10 surviving sloths now under care at the Central Florida Zoo, though three have since died and none can be released into the wild.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) suspended imports of sloths for 60 days following the deaths of 55 sloths linked to Orlando’s Sloth World, a facility that was set to open in 2026. The attraction, marketed as a conservation-focused ‘Slotharium,’ shut down after reports emerged of the sloths dying either in transit or at the facility. Investigations revealed that 31 sloths died in August 2025, including 21 from Guyana suffering from ‘cold stun,’ while 10 from Peru arrived emaciated and died due to poor health conditions. An additional 21 sloths died in May 2026 from gastrointestinal issues, according to Florida Department of Agriculture reports. Sloth World, located along Orlando’s International Drive, had its website removed after the controversy. Ten sloths were initially transferred to the Central Florida Zoo & Biological Gardens in Sanford, but three later died, leaving seven in critical care. The Sloth Conservation Foundation stated none of the survivors can be released into the wild, requiring lifelong care at AZA-accredited facilities. The FWC announced it will review Class III wildlife licensing rules, which regulate non-domestic animals like sloths, in collaboration with wildlife officials and stakeholders. The suspension aims to address regulatory gaps amid ongoing investigations into the facility’s operations.
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