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A tragic situation has unfolded at Sloth World, the so-called “World’s Only Slotharium,” where 55 sloths have died due to inadequate living conditions. This distressing loss has ignited calls for urgent reforms in how these animals are cared for and handled.
Dr. Rebecca Cliffe, founder of the Sloth Conservation Foundation, shed light on the issue, explaining that sloths require warm climates and a diet rich in greens to thrive. The conditions at Sloth World, however, failed to meet these basic needs, contributing to the animals’ demise.
In a disturbing series of events, at least 31 sloths died after being housed in a poorly equipped, unlicensed warehouse in 2024. This facility lacked electricity and other essential amenities. Despite the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) becoming aware of these deaths in August 2025, the facility was allowed to continue importing sloths until March 2026, during which time another 21 sloths perished.
Documents spanning 178 pages, obtained from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, include necropsy reports that reveal the grim details of the sloths’ deaths. Records show that Sloth World continued acquiring sloths even as investigations were ongoing.
“Under Florida law, causing unnecessary suffering to animals is a criminal offense,” Dr. Cliffe emphasized.
“Placing sensitive creatures like sloths in a warehouse with no electricity, heat, or running water led to preventable deaths. It’s baffling how this doesn’t constitute a violation.”
State Attorney Monique Worrell has pledged to hold those responsible accountable, stating, “We will do everything within our power to ensure accountability in this matter.”
The Sloth Conservation Foundation is advocating for several measures to prevent future tragedies, including banning the import of wild sloths into the U.S. for commercial or private purposes, reviewing the classification of sloths under current regulations, and demanding full transparency on animal deaths in such facilities.
Representative Anna Eskamani has publicly condemned the management of Sloth World, labeling them unqualified to care for these animals. Health reports reveal the sloths suffered from numerous conditions, many related to stress and poor nutrition. Notably, some were fed inappropriate diets, such as brown rice, rather than fresh greens essential for their health.
Haley Straub, CEO of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, highlighted the sensitivity of sloths and their vulnerability to health complications from stress and improper care.
Online reviews of Sloth World reflect public outrage, with visitors giving the attraction one-star ratings and urging the business to reconsider its operation.
The Sloth Conservation Foundation plans to hold a press conference alongside Representative Maxwell Frost to address the issue further, scheduled for Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. This tragic episode has sparked a vital conversation about animal welfare and the responsibilities of those who care for exotic wildlife.