SANFORD, Fla. — A fifth sloth taken in by the Central Florida Zoo from Sloth World has died, zoo officials announced Tuesday.
Willow’s health had declined sharply over the past several days, continuing a steady deterioration over several weeks despite intensive supportive care and veterinary treatment, zoo officials said in a statement.
After consultation with experts through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, veterinarians made the decision to humanely euthanize Willow to prevent further suffering, according to the zoo.
She was one of 13 sloths brought to the zoo on April 24. When they arrived, several were in critical condition and others had digestive issues that left them underweight, zoo officials said. Willow had shown similar digestive issues as others that arrived in need of critical treatment, they said.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Willow,” Central Florida Zoo Chief Executive Officer Richard Glover said in a statement. “Our animal care teams devoted countless hours to providing compassionate care. While this outcome is heartbreaking, we take comfort in knowing Willow received the highest level of care and support from a team that was fully committed to her well-being.”
The other sloths that have died were Bandit, Habanero, Dumpling and Mr. Ginger.
The surviving sloths at the zoo — Chewy, Dolce, Phantom, Blackberry, Hazel, Leeloo, Mojo Jojo and Pearl — remain in quarantine. Veterinarians take that precaution to help provide a low-stress environment for the mammals while they are closely monitored and any necessary medical treatment can be provided.
Officials say at least 55 sloths imported to Florida to be showcased at a planned Sloth World attraction on International Drive in Orlando died before the zoo took in the remaining 13.
Sloth World, which had touted itself as the world’s only “Slotharium,” has announced that it will not open.