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Update 05\/03\/26<\/p>\n
CENTRAL FLORIDA \u2014 The Central Florida Zoo shared heartfelt news on Facebook that Habanero, the sloth, sadly passed away Saturday evening after his condition worsened rapidly. <\/p>\n
According to the post, he was one of the most vulnerable sloths donated from Sloth World, and his loss is deeply felt. <\/p>\n
“It is devastating for everyone to lose an animal, but none more so than for our veterinary and animal care teams who truly gave their all to give Habanero a chance.<\/p>\n
At this time, two additional animals are in guarded condition. Our team, working in consultation with other experts from around the country, continues to give their all in what we expect will be a long fight.”<\/p>\n
\u2014 \u00a0Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens<\/p>\n
The CFL Zoo anticipates a long fight ahead for the vulnerable sloths in its care.<\/p>\n
Second sloth at Central Florida Zoo in critical condition after Sloth World rescue<\/p>\n
Another sloth being treated at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is now in critical condition, weeks after the facility took in a group of animals connected to the \u201cSloth World\u201d case.<\/p>\n
Zoo officials reported that Habanero, an adult female sloth, started to decline late yesterday after initially showing signs of recovery. When the sloths first arrived, many were in serious condition and needed intensive care. However, staff mentioned that some, including Habanero, had stabilized and were eating and drinking again.<\/p>\n
Recently, animal care teams observed Habanero becoming more lethargic. Authorities mentioned that, similar to many animals, sloths can hide symptoms until their health worsens.<\/p>\n
The zoo\u2019s veterinary team is continuing treatment and closely monitoring her condition.<\/p>\n
The update follows the recent death of another sloth from the same group. Bandit, one of 13 sloths admitted to the zoo, passed away after arriving in critical condition with several health problems, such as dehydration and gastrointestinal issues. Despite receiving extensive medical treatment, the staff decided to euthanize him.<\/p>\n
The remaining sloths continue to receive ongoing treatment, with zoo officials emphasizing that recovery will take time and that the early stages of care are especially delicate.<\/p>\n
The zoo is also asking for public donations<\/a> to help support ongoing care and recovery efforts.<\/p>\n Click here<\/a> to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here<\/a> to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.<\/p>\n