Third Rescued Sloth Dumpling Passes Away at Central Florida Zoo

Central Florida Zoo Shares Heartbreaking Update on Death of Rescued Sloth Dumpling

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has shared a somber update regarding the group of sloths recently rescued from the shuttered Sloth World facility in Orlando. Dumpling, one of the sloths who arrived in critical condition on April 24, has passed away after a sudden downturn in health.

Related – Central Florida Zoo Takes in 13 Sloths from Sloth World as Location Shuts Down

The Fight for Dumpling

Dumpling had been under around-the-clock care for 11 days, battling a series of gastrointestinal (GI) and digestion issues. While the veterinary team observed several “ups and downs” during her stay, her condition took a rapid turn for the worse on Monday morning.

The zoo explained that sloths are biologically programmed to hide signs of extreme illness as a survival instinct. This often means that by the time an animal shows visible distress, their condition is already at a critical or irreversible stage. Additionally, because sloths have such slow metabolisms, it can take weeks for pre-existing health issues to manifest.

The Ongoing Rescue Mission

Dumpling’s passing follows the loss of two other sloths, Bandit and Habanero, earlier this month. Of the 13 sloths originally donated to the zoo from the “Sloth World” warehouse, 10 individuals remain under close monitoring in a dedicated 30-day quarantine space.

The surviving group includes two sloths currently in guarded condition, while the others are listed as stable. The zoo’s medical team is performing advanced diagnostics—including blood analysis and hormonal testing—to ensure the remaining sloths have the best possible chance for recovery.

A Community Effort

The Central Florida Zoo is working alongside the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) to determine the best long-term placement for these animals once they are fully stabilized. In the meantime, the cost of specialized food, emergency medicine, and constant staffing is considerable.

The zoo has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public. For those looking to help, the zoo is currently accepting donations to assist with the high costs of this unexpected and intensive rehabilitation project.

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