The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has announced the passing of Willow, one of the sloths that arrived at the Zoo from Sloth World on April 24. The Zoo said Willow's health declined over several days despite ongoing veterinary treatment and intensive supportive care. After monitoring her condition, Zoo veterinarians made the decision to humanely euthanize her to prevent further suffering, according to the announcement dated June 16, 2026.
The Zoo's chief executive said the animal care teams spent many hours providing compassionate care and that the team was committed to Willow's well-being.
The Zoo said its team remains focused on providing support and necessary treatments for the surviving sloths in its care: Chewy, Dolce, Phantom, Blackberry, Hazel, Leeloo, Mojo Jojo and Pearl. All remain in quarantine, which the Zoo described as a step that helps provide a stable, low-stress environment while veterinary and animal care teams monitor their progress and provide any needed medical treatment. The Zoo noted it is a nonprofit and that donations support care for the sloths, and pointed to its sloth information page for more details.
Press release issued by Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens:
https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/central-florida-zoo-announces-passing-of-willow-the-sloth/
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