Central Florida Zoo Awarded $10K Grant for Sloth Rehabilitation Initiatives

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has been granted $10,000 to support its rehabilitation efforts for sloths associated with the ill-fated Sloth World attraction. This recognition, provided by the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), commends the zoo for its dedication in caring for the sloths. NAVC CEO Gene O’Neill praised the zoo’s team for their extensive commitment, clinical expertise, and compassion in handling the rescue of these animals.

Between 2024 and 2025, numerous wild sloths were brought from South America for the Sloth World project but suffered severe conditions while being housed in a warehouse. The owners ultimately donated the 13 surviving sloths to the zoo; however, many arrived in critical health. Five of the sloths have since passed away, while the remaining eight are reportedly recovering well. The situation led to public outcry and calls for regulatory changes, including a temporary ban on sloth imports and new permitting requirements enforced by Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. An investigation into the sloth deaths revealed no signs of intentional harm or criminal neglect.