‘Sloth World’ inspection report reveals multiple sloth deaths in Orlando – what happens now
A newly surfaced Florida wildlife inspection report is shedding light on the operation behind Sloth World, a planned Orlando attraction, following recent reporting by Inside Climate News that brought the matter to wider public attention.
Central Florida is home to one of the most visible tourism markets in the world, and transparency, ethics, and animal care standards are at the forefront of guest expectations when it comes to such attractions.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission involvement
According to a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report dated Aug. 7, 2025, inspectors conducted an unannounced visit to a warehouse facility at 7547 International Drive operated by Sanctuary World Imports. The report states the facility was being used to receive and acclimate imported sloths before transferring them to Sloth World at 6582 International Drive for permanent public exhibit.
We contacted a public relations firm that was previously associated with Sloth World, which has since discontinued its relationship with the attraction. The representative was not able to answer our questions and directed us to Sloth World’s general email address. Our inquiry to Sloth World has remained unanswered.
Sloth safety and care
The most significant portion of the report references an inquiry into the deaths of 31 sloths between December 2024 and February 2025.
According to statements summarized in the report, owner Peter Bandre told inspectors that 21 sloths from Guyana died after arriving during a period when the warehouse was not ready, lacking water and electricity.
The report states that space heaters were powered from another building and at one point failed during colder weather.
It also states that 10 additional sloths from Peru later arrived in poor condition, with two dead on arrival and the remaining eight later dying.
What happens next?
Sloth World’s opening has been delayed for a few months now. Their website remains unchanged, and their social media is active, including posts that appear to be AI-generated. Their location on International Drive in Orlando has been vacant for some time. Previously, an animal attraction named Cool Zoo was meant to occupy a space in this same area, but it never opened.
Many reputable zoological institutions and animal experiences throughout Florida operate with strong welfare standards, conservation programs, and educational missions. Situations that raise concern can also serve as reminders of the importance of those benchmarks.
You can view the Inside Climate News article here, which was published earlier this week. The featured image contains a photo from Nili in Getty Images Pro.
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