Florida wildlife inspectors uncovered the deaths of at least 31 sloths imported from Guyana and Peru in late 2024 and early 2025, mostly caused by horrendous conditions at a warehouse near Sloth World, including no electricity or water and a frigid environment; an August 2025 inspection report details these failures.

Federal attention followed the closure, with U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost acknowledging the facility’s shutdown and recognizing local officials and advocates who raised awareness.

Public pressure and remarks from local lawmakers, including State Rep. Anna Eskamani, helped spur the decision to close Sloth World before its opening.

The piece presents competing narratives: the FWC found no intentional misconduct, while Sloth World Orlando denies those findings, amid ongoing public and political scrutiny.

Advocacy calls for shutting down Sloth World and pushing for stronger animal-welfare policies in travel and entertainment experiences.

Public fundraising efforts are underway to cover the ongoing care of the sloths, with donation options publicly listed through the zoo and related channels.

The timing aligned with the planned spring opening of the rainforest-inspired exhibit marketed as Orlando’s only slotharium, though the project’s future is uncertain amid investigations and regulatory concerns.

The report references connections to a public relations firm and ongoing media scrutiny from Inside Climate News and Attractions Magazine, highlighting broader public attention on the attraction.

The coverage centers on animal welfare concerns and public backlash, signaling potential regulatory and organizational pushback.

The Associated Press reported the findings and sought comment from Bandre and Sloth World, with officials later indicating name changes and staff changes.

Comment requests from PEOPLE, Sloth World, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission remain pending.

Emails suggest Sloth World aimed to open as early as mid-May despite regulatory findings, reflecting ongoing clashes between regulators and the attraction’s planning.