SANFORD, Fla. \u2014 The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has introduced the public to Leeloo, a female Linnaeus\u2019s two-toed sloth believed to be the smallest and possibly youngest sloth currently in the zoo\u2019s care.<\/p>\n
Named after the iconic character from the film \u201cThe Fifth Element,\u201d Leeloo has quickly become a favorite among animal care staff. <\/p>\n
According to the zoo, her signature two-toed claws are so small that some of the fruits and vegetables in her diet are longer than her claws.<\/p>\n
Keepers say Leeloo was initially very shy after arriving at the zoo, but she has gradually become more comfortable in her new home. <\/p>\n
She now regularly emerges from her hanging cubby to accept food from staff and enjoys exploring her habitat. <\/p>\n
Most days, visitors can find her relaxing in a hanging bucket.<\/p>\n
Leeloo is one of the surviving sloths rescued from the now-defunct International Drive attraction Sloth World, a case that has been under investigation since April and closely followed by Channel 9.<\/p>\n
The rescue effort comes amid growing concerns about sloth welfare in Florida. <\/p>\n
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recently approved new restrictions on the ownership and importation of sloths into the state.<\/p>\n
Under the changes, sloths will no longer be covered under Class III Wildlife permits, also known as blanket import permits. <\/p>\n
Anyone seeking to import a sloth into Florida will now be required to obtain a specific importation permit from the commission.<\/p>\n
According to investigators, at least 57 sloths connected to Sloth World have died, while eight others continue to receive treatment. <\/p>\n
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