MR. GINGER PHOTO VIA CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced Wednesday it will temporarily halt all sloth importations into the state through an executive order.
The move follows an ongoing investigation into the deaths of more than 50 sloths at the planned Sloth World attraction on International Drive in Orange County. The facility reportedly lacked stable heating, proper enclosures, and at times had no running water or electricity. Several surviving sloths were transferred to the Central Florida Zoo for medical treatment. Some have died at the zoo due to their poor health condition.
State Rep. Anna Eskamani applauded the decision and called for further action.
“This is great news, and a critical first step,” Eskamani said in a statement. “Pausing sloth importations gives Florida the time we need to craft thoughtful, science-based policy focused squarely on the health and well-being of these animals, and to make sure what happened on International Drive never happens again anywhere in the state.”
Eskamani met with FWC on Monday alongside representatives from the Sloth Institute and the Sloth Conservation Foundation.
“I will continue to push for a full criminal probe into the operators of this facility, and I will continue to work with my colleagues through rulemaking and statute to reform the Class 3 permitting system for sloths that made this tragedy possible in the first place,” Eskamani said.
She added that her office will engage with FWC, veterinary experts, sanctuary professionals, and constituents in the coming weeks to help shape permanent policy reforms. She encouraged anyone with information about the Sloth World facility or ideas for strengthening exotic animal laws to contact her office.
FWC and state lawmakers are considering changes to Class 3 permits, which currently allow people to own sloths in Florida.
The pause on importations will remain in effect while officials review regulations and permitting requirements for sloth ownership in the state.
Meanwhile, the Central Florida Zoo has expanded its fundraising efforts to help offset the cost of caring for the animals they received from Sloth World.
