Orlando, FL: Today, the Central Florida Zoo shared online that Mr. Ginger has passed away. Mr. Ginger was the youngest sloth brought into their care via the now-bankrupt “Sloth World.” 13 sloths were brought to the Central Florida Zoo; Mr. Ginger is the fourth to pass away, and in total, 56 wild sloths have now died.
Below is Representative Dr. Anna V. Eskamani’s reaction:
I am heartbroken to learn of Mr. Ginger’s passing. My deepest thanks go to the team at the Central Florida Zoo, who gave him the love, care, and dignity he deserved after arriving in their care under devastating circumstances and in poor condition.Mr. Ginger’s story should never have been written the way it was. He was the youngest survivor of “Sloth World” — a reckless, profit-driven sideshow off International Drive that cost the lives of 56 wild sloths before collapsing into bankruptcy. These were sentient, vulnerable animals, enjoying life in the forest, who were then exploited for a quick buck by operators who treated their welfare as an afterthought.We owe Mr. Ginger — and all the sloths who have lost their lives — more than mourning. We owe them action. That is why I will continue to push for the criminal probe already launched by local law enforcement and prosecutors, and why we will continue to work with FWC to ensure long-term policy change so this never happens again.To the Central Florida Zoo team: thank you for loving Mr. Ginger, and for giving him a soft place to land. Rest easy, little one.
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